kyoto 1 day trip pantip

1 Day Kyoto Itinerary, Japan (2024 GUIDE)

This 1 Day Kyoto Itinerary is the perfect guide for first-timers visiting the cultural capital of Japan.

From ancient temples and shrines to shopping streets and nourishing restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

There are so many things to do in Kyoto that you could quite literally spend weeks exploring this magnificent city.

But don’t worry – if you only have a short time frame to visit, seeing the top Kyoto attractions in one day is totally possible.

In this 1-day itinerary for Kyoto, I have included a complete list of the top places to see as well as some useful information on how to get around, where to stay in Kyoto, and a map of the city.

Table of Contents

1 DAY KYOTO ITINERARY OVERVIEW

To get the most out of your Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary, see below for a list of must-see attractions that I have included in this post:

• Kinkaku-ji Temple
• Ryoan-ji Temple
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 
• Fushimi Inari (Tori Gates)
• Maiko Theatre (Geisha Girl Performance)
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple

KINKAKU-JI TEMPLE

For the first stop on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary, I highly suggest paying a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto’s northwest, where you’ll find the famous Golden Pavilion, located on a small lake in the middle of a serene garden.

The building dates back to 1397, and was once the holiday retreat villa for a prominent Japanese Shogun!

You can expect to spend about an hour exploring the temple and its surrounding gardens.

To reach Kinkaku-ji Temple on your Kyoto day trip itinerary, you can take the Kyoto City Bus 205 from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji-michi bus stop, or Kyoto City Bus 59 from Sanjo-Keihan to the Kinkakuji-mae stop, or taxi directly to Kinkaku-ji Temple.

→ Click here for the pin location on Google Maps

ENTRANCE FEE & OPENING HOURS:

The entrance fee to visit Kinkakuji Temple is 400¥.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 9 am – 5 pm.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

RYOAN-JI TEMPLE

Ryoan-ji Temple is the site of Japan’s most famous rock garden, attracting hundreds of visitors every day.

Meditating with the view of this immaculately well-kept Cultural World Heritage site is the next best place to visit on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary!

From Kinkaku-ji Temple, it’s a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to reach Ryoan-ji Temple.

The entrance fee to enter Ryoanji Temple is 500¥.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 8 am – 5 pm – Plenty of time to visit on a day in Kyoto.

ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO FOREST

Next up on this itinerary is the world-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. A trip to Kyoto wouldn’t be complete without having visited Arashiyama!

Kyoto’s bamboo forest is one of the most photographed attractions in the city and experiencing it through your own eyes is even better than any picture you would have seen of this place!

There is one main path leading through the Kyoto bamboo grove and when you enter the parallel tunnel of bamboo trees, you’ll feel like you’ve just entered another realm.

You will also notice the temperature drop when you are wandering through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove as the canopy above almost completely cuts out the sun.

The nature that surrounds Arashiyama is absolutely breathtaking and chances are you’ll spot a few monkeys in the area too, so keep your eye peeled.

A personal recommendation – make sure to come just after sunrise as photos will look even more stunning and you’ll avoid the group tours.

Talking about group tours, in case you don’t feel comfortable visiting by yourself, I recommend taking this early bird tour to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . Many people prepare their 1 day Kyoto itinerary from Osaka only for that!

BEST TOUR IN KYOTO

A must-do when visiting Kyoto is joining a Kyoto Early Bird Tour !

It includes a professional guide, a tour of the Bamboo Forest and other spots, and the Kinkakuji Temple!

The Bamboo Forest in Kyoto is located in Arashiyama, northwest of the city center.

Find your way to Saga Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano line using the JR Pass and it’s a short 10-minute walk from here.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest entrance fee is FREE, which is another great reason to visit on your one day in Kyoto itinerary.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 5:30 am – 11:30 pm, and that is so convenient if you plan a day trip to Kyoto from Osaka.

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Less is more with the Atmos AG 50L , the newest arrival in the Osprey backpacking range!

From weekend explorations to month-long expeditions, this EPIC backpack is up to the task and will stand the test of time.

FUSHIMI INARI

Continue the adventure on your one day Kyoto itinerary by journeying through the world-famous Tori gates of Fushimi Inari.

This must-see shrine consists of a pathway lined with over 10,000 Tori gates that extends 4km up to the very top of Mount Inari.

It takes around two hours to walk to the very top and back down again, however, you can turn back at any time you want!

Along the pathway, you will also see many stone foxes, symbolizing the messenger of Inari – the god of rice… and business!

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is also known for its beautiful architecture and gardens, making it an ideal spot for photographers looking to capture some amazing shots and it’s a great idea for what to do in Kyoto in 1 day.

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Railway Station using the JR Pass and ride it two stops to JR Inari Station.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is FREE to enter and it’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

MAIKO THEATER

One of the most exclusive experiences to add to your Kyoto 1 day itinerary is meeting a traditional Geisha performer.

Geisha are highly skilled entertainers who appear at high-end dinners, private parties, and special events to add a special touch to the proceedings, and are rarely seen in public.

Many foreigners tend to run around the red light district areas to try to get a glimpse of a Geisha girl or pay large sums of money to have a private performance.

Luckily, for travelers on a budget, there are some cheap options to get a taste of what a Geisha show is like!

I personally recommend the Maiko Theatre. While training to become Geisha between the ages of 15 and 20, these girls are known as ‘Maiko’, and this theatre gives you the rare opportunity to get to see one of them close up!

Take the bus from Kyoto Station to Kawaramachi Gojo bus stop, then walk for 2 minutes, or 3 minutes walk east from Keihan Shimizu Gojo station (exit 4).

It is relatively inexpensive at 3300¥ for their basic show, including a special dance and Q&A session, and you can take as many photos of (and with) her as you like!

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 10 am – 7 pm.

The BEST Affordable Camera For Travel

If you’re on the hunt for a professional camera for traveling, check out the Canon G7 X Mark II .

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KIYOMIZU-DERA

Next on this itinerary for Kyoto is a visit to the Kiyomizu-dera (Water) Temple.

The walk leading up to the temple is almost as exciting as the temple visit itself, with a multitude of traditional buildings, shops, and restaurants.

Kiyomizu-dera is built into the side of the mountain, and from the huge verandah, you can see spectacular views of the hillside and the entire city.

Below the Kiyomizu-dera temple, you can find the reason why people make pilgrimages here from around Japan and the world – the Otowa Waterfall, a must-see on a Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

The waters are divided into three streams, and visitors use long poles with cups attached to drink from the streams.

Each stream has a different meaning and benefit – long life and health, success in school/career, and love. However, you can only drink from one… so choose carefully!

Make your way to Kiyomizu-michi street and follow it uphill until you reach the popular Kiyomizu-dera (Water) Temple.

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple entrance fee is 300¥.

This Kyoto tourist spot is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, and that’s plenty of time to include it with other spots what to see in Kyoto for the day.

Last but not least on this Kyoto day itinerary is Gion, a must-do when taking a Kyoto day trip from Osaka or Tokyo.

From Kiyomizu-dera, you can meander down the iconic Sannen-zaka alleyway, a historical, stone-paved street lined with many traditional Japanese buildings, shops, cafes, and inns.

Sannen-zaka is also surrounded by several famous landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda, and Kodaiji Zen Temple.

Once you reach the bottom of the hill, you’ve basically arrived at Gion, home to various red-light districts where you might be lucky enough to spot a Geisha! My favorite is Hanamikoji Street.

I recommend timing your arrival here for around 5:30 pm, as this is when the Geishas start leaving their homes to go to work (…and avoid the paparazzi of foreigners while doing so!)

Be careful though, you can be fined for taking photos of them, as it is considered highly disrespectful.

Put the cameras down for this one, and enjoy the chance to see one in the moment!

RELATED ARTICLE → 7 DAY JAPAN ITINERARY

WHERE TO STAY IN KYOTO

There are thousands of accommodations to stay on a Kyoto 1 day trip, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations that I personally recommend for your Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

LUXURY: HOTEL GRANVIA KYOTO

MID RANGE: TUNE STAY KYOTO

BUDGET: PIECE HOSTEL SANJO

TRADITIONAL RYOKAN

If you’re looking for an authentic experience to add to your 1 day in Kyoto itinerary, I highly recommend staying at a traditional Ryokan (Japanese-style inn) during your stay.

My personal favorite is Kyoto Ryokan Kinoe which is conveniently located in central Kyoto just 5 minutes walk from Gion.

This cozy Ryokan offers spacious tatami mat rooms, 24-hour baths, and multi-course meals served for breakfast and dinner.

Staying here will make you feel like you’re a traveler back in Edo-era Japan, and it’s a great base for a Kyoto 1 day itinerary!

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN KYOTO

Didn’t find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs above.

Use the interactive map below to search all the available hotels for your Kyoto day tour itinerary. Simply enter your dates of stay and hit the search button!

MORE THINGS TO DO IN KYOTO

If you have more than one day in Kyoto, be sure to check out my Kyoto travel guide which includes 25 AMAZING things to do in Kyoto!

Read More: Kyoto Travel Guide – 25 AMAZING Things To Do

Best day trips from kyoto.

The best day trips from Kyoto are to Nara and/or Osaka.

Nara was once the ancient capital of Japan and plays home to some of the country’s most important cultural places, including the world’s largest wooden structure.

Some of the best things to see in Nara on a day trip from Kyoto are the famous Todai-ji Temple which houses the world’s largest Daibutsu (bronze Buddha statue) and a visit to the Nara Deer Park where it’s said that when you bow to the deer, they will bow back!

Osaka is the 3rd largest city in Japan and is most popular for its modern architecture, historical castles, buzzing nightlife, and sensory-overload shopping malls.

The top attractions to visit in Osaka on a day trip from Kyoto are the Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi shopping malls, Osaka Castle, Amerika-mura (America Town), and Universal Studios Japan.

Even if you have limited time on your Kyoto one day itinerary, I highly recommend going to Osaka for the day or half day.

Alternatively, you can see the city first and then proceed from Osaka to Kyoto on your Japan holiday.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR KYOTO

For first-timers planning a one day trip to Kyoto, here are some useful travel tips to know before you go.

STAY AROUND CENTRAL KYOTO

While pretty much all areas of Kyoto are good to stay in, Central Kyoto is the most convenient. And since it’s near the main train station, you can even organize a day trip to Kyoto from Tokyo.

This puts you right at the center of all the main attractions in Kyoto, making it easier and less time-consuming to explore around.

From Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari to Ginkaku-ji and Nijo Castle, most of the major landmarks are located within Central Kyoto, so there’s no need to walk for hours or take a taxi or a bike.

Staying centrally also allows for easy access to popular restaurants, shopping areas, and more, basically providing an optimal base for a few days.

Also, if you plan a Kyoto day trip from Tokyo, you can easily get around town and come back later or the day after to the train station.

VISIT THE KYOTO ATTRACTIONS EARLY

Kyoto receives 87 million tourists per year on average, so visiting the tourist spots in Kyoto early is a great way to avoid crowds and walk around peacefully.

The popular things to do in Kyoto and all the major attractions are packed with tourists, so it’s wise to go early in the morning when the lines are shorter.

Plus, you’ll benefit from cooler temperatures, which is a plus in the summertime.

COME IN APRIL FOR CHERRY BLOSSOM

To see the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, consider coming in early April when you can really experience the city in full bloom.

The cherry blossom starts in late March but the peak comes in April, and this is precisely where you can see the city as beautiful as ever.

DON’T TIP

When it comes to Japan, one thing to keep in mind is that tipping is seen as rude and, therefore, it’s better not to tip. In fact, it could even be seen as an insult by the locals.

Instead of tipping, show a sign of appreciation either verbally or with a bow to express gratitude for the service provided. This applies to restaurants and ryokans too.

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Getting travel insurance should be an essential consideration when traveling in Japan. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and it’s always best to be prepared for the worst.

Additionally, make sure you commit only to reputable companies and read the fine print carefully!

I personally use Heymondo and am very happy with their policy, coverage, and customer service. Check them out here below when planning a day trip in Kyoto.

MOBILE DATA:

When you arrive in Kyoto Japan, you’re going to want to get online, and purchasing a sim card is very simple. You can do this at the airport on arrival at one of the retail stores.

Alternatively, I recommend purchasing an eSIM in advance with pre-loaded mobile data so you can get online as soon as you land and stay connected on your trip.

Forget plastic SIM Cards… Get an eSIM!

Say hello to eSIM – a virtual SIM card pre-loaded with mobile data so you can get online and stay connected around the world.

OneSimCard is the best eSIM for travel, with low-cost data packages available in 150+ countries.

Simply buy online, install it on your smartphone, and you’re good to go!

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Kyoto.

WHAT TO PACK FOR KYOTO

When planning a one day trip Kyoto, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

GENERAL TIPS FOR JAPAN

Most Japanese people can speak English, so if you are ever lost or need help with something you will be able to converse in English.

Also, all the signs at the airports, train stations, shopping malls, etc. are written in both Japanese and English.

The currency in Japan is Yen (¥) and the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = 130 ¥.

There are plenty of ATMs in Japan located in the majority of convenience stores, in front of banks, inside hotels, etc. where you can easily withdraw cash to have with you during your trip.

HOW TO GET AROUND JAPAN

The easiest and most convenient way to discover Japan is with a Japan Rail Pass that is valid for use on the vast majority of railways and local buses operated by JR (Japan Rail) throughout the country.

Choose between an Ordinary Pass, or choose the Green Class Pass if you’re looking to travel in more comfort with reclining seats, a footrest, extra leg space, and a travel magazine.

The JR Pass includes the Shinkansen (bullet train), Limited Express, Local Trains, Monorail, JR Buses, and the Miyajima Ferry.

You could even take a Kyoto 1 day itinerary from Osaka if you’re planning to visit both.

The Japan Rail Pass is definitely the best ticket to have when planning your Japan itinerary, and you can then take the Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train!

Travel Japan with the JR Pass!

Get a 7-day, 14-day, or 21-day JR Pass for your trip to Japan and enjoy unlimited travel on trains and buses!

The JR Pass is valid on the Shinkansen (bullet train), Limited Express, Local Trains, Monorail, and JR Buses.

BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN

The best time to visit Japan depends on what you plan to do.

I personally prefer the spring and summer months in Japan (April – September) when temperatures are warm and the landscapes are vividly green.

However, visiting Japan in winter (December – March) is absolutely magical because the landscapes are completely covered in glistening white snow.

Visiting Japan in winter also means you have to opportunity to go skiing and snowboarding in Japan’s alpine regions .

VISA FOR JAPAN

Japan is visa-free for travelers from over 65 countries and you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days on a tourist visa. 

Click Here to see the full list of nationalities that are eligible for the free 90-day tourist visa. 

You don’t need to apply online for this as you will be granted a 90-day tourist visa at the airport when you arrive.

More Japan Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Japan!

FINAL THOUGHTS – KYOTO ITINERARY

After 7 eventful days exploring Japan, my short one day itinerary Kyoto by far exceeded my expectations!

With many fun activities to do and attractions to see, Kyoto is well worth adding to your Japan Itinerary . I guarantee you won’t regret taking a Kyoto one day trip!

If you have any questions at all about this 1 Day in Kyoto Itinerary , please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

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Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary For Things to See in Kyoto in One Day!

Categories Asia , Itinerary , Japan

Kyoto is one of the prettiest and most iconic cities to visit in Japan and it must be on your Japan itinerary ! There are lots of things to do in Kyoto and places to visit in Kyoto but if you only have one day in Kyoto , that’s ok, you can see many of these on a Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

There are many reasons you may spend just 1 day in Kyoto , for me, it was because I was in Japan in Cherry Blossom season so accommodation in Kyoto was really expensive. Therefore I decided to base myself in Osaka and do an Osaka to Kyoto day trip to ensure I could still see the temples and Kyoto attractions I desperately wanted to see!

How To Do An Osaka to Kyoto Day Trip & Use Your JR Pass!(opens in a new tab)

In this Kyoto one day itinerary I am going to tell you how to visit the most iconic places to visit in Kyoto like the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion District, Kyoto Palace, Kyoto Park in the perfect Kyoto itinerary!

Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary

Things To Do in Kyoto in One Day

The two main, popular and iconic places to visit in Kyoto , in my opinion, are the Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . They have been made even more famous thanks to Instagram and Instagram often shows you photos with no one else in them making you think that you will see this too.

Well, if you want to see that you need to get to them early !

Of course, I could only visit one of the two sites early  because I was on a one day trip to Kyoto!

After looking on a map I realised that Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are opposite ends of Kyoto to each other and that  Fushimi Inari Shrine is much closer to Kyoto Station , so I decided to go there first and on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary , I recommend you do too whether you are staying overnight in Kyoto or not.

• More of my Must Read Japan Posts:
• How to do a Day Trip to Kyoto from Osaka!
• Free Things To Do in Japan’s Most Popular Cities To Visit!
• Visiting Himeji Castle on a Day Trip or via Hiroshima.
• My Guide to Kobe City & Why You Should Visit !
• Things To Do In Takayama & Why You Should Visit!

Fushimi Inari Shrine

If you are taking a day trip to Kyoto from Osaka like myself or perhaps from Kobe , to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine from Kyoto Station when you get off the train head to the ‘JR Nara Line D’ Train on platforms 8-10 . Check the train before you get on as you need to get the local train , not the rapid train as the rapid train does not stop at Inari.

The train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station takes 5 or so minutes and the station exit is across the road from the Temple Entrance so by 9:00 am, I was there!

Kyoto Travel Tip – If you want to see those iconic and very impressive Torii Gates with minimal people on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary, when you arrive do not spend time seeing the Temples at the bottom, head straight up the hill to the Torii Gates and follow them up for as long as you can!

I was really surprised by how long the Torii Gates go on for, they keep going and going! I turned around after about 30 minutes of walking but I could have gone much further. I didn’t expect the pathway to be such an incline either but it is although luckily there are quite a few stopping points on the way.

Kyoto Travel Tip – If you want to get a photo in the Torii Gates of the Inari Shrine with no people in it you need to keep walking, the further you get, the fewer people there are, however, this also depends on the time of day.

Alternatively to get a photo at the Inari Torii Gates with no one else in it, just take a selfie and block other people with your head as I have! 

One Day Trip Kyoto

If you would prefer to see Kyoto with a guide or combine your trip with a tour of Kyoto , these Kyoto tours all have good reviews and are reasonable in price. Kyoto holds so much history that a day out with a guide would be a good idea and going on the Kyoto hop on, hop off bus will make seeing Kyoto in one day much easier too:

By 10:00 am I was back down at the base by the Temples and the day tour groups of Kyoto were arriving which made it so much busier and I was so glad I got there at 9:00 am.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine does not shut so technically you can get there as early as you like and I recommend getting there as early as possible on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary/

Kyoto Street Food

Outside the Temple are Street food vendors selling lots of different foods. In fact, there’s lots of street food in Kyoto outside the tourist spots which is actually really nice and a great way to eat on the go and eat some fairly cheap eats too. I got an Okonomi Yaki which was really good for 500Yen which I don’t think is too bad for a popular Kyoto tourist site.

If you would prefer to sit down and get breakfast or brunch, or even just a coffee after that walk, a nice looking cafe close to Inari Shrine is Vermillion .

JAPAN SIM CARD

Stay connected in Japan by ordering a sim card in advance and picking it up at the airport you land in. There a huge range of sim card options in Japan which you can see and buy here !

If you prefer eSIM’s these days, here’s a great option for an eSIM Mobile Data Plan in Japan so you’re connected as soon as you land without the hassle of swapping sims and waiting for connection.

JAPAN RAIL PASS

I’m sure you know, or have heard, that the Japan Rail Pass is the best value for getting around Japan!

There are many providers for the JR Pass but this is the official provider and the one I used.

You need to get your JR Pass ordered BEFORE your trip and sent to your home address, so look into buying one here !

Not sure how the JR Pass works and wondering if it will save you money?

Read my JR Pass guide here!

I then headed to Fushimi Inari Station Railway which is across the across and different to the station I got off at and headed a few stops on the metro North to Gion Shijo . To use the metro/subway in Kyoto you can either by individual tickets or use a top-up Icoca Card.

Gion District

The Gion District is Kyoto’s famous Geisha District and an old area of Kyoto so it a must-see in Kyoto in one day. For me, this is what I imaged not only Kyoto to be like but Japan too. Especially after reading the book Memoirs of a Geisha which I read a few years ago and really recommend to you if you haven’t read it.

There’s a river running through the Gion area of Kyoto with small traditional wooden merchant houses lining the streets. Because I was there at the start of April the Cherry Blossoms were also out in full bloom and it was extremely picturesque and a must-visit place in Kyoto!

It’s said that you are very lucky in Japan if you see a real Geisha, especially here in Kyoto, however, what you will most definitely see a lot of is tourists who have either hired Kimono’s which you can do here to save looking around many different shops or have had a full Geisha Makeover in Gion which you can book here , taking photos in the old backstreets of the area. Dressing up as a Geisha is possible with 1 day in Kyoto!

From Gion, I walked along the Shirakawa River in a loop until it reaches the main Kamo River  detouring via Okazaki Park and the Temple next to it and I really enjoyed this walk as it took me through a mix of buildings and the river kept changing shape and looks at every turn, so I would recommend you follow the same walkthrough Gion, Kyoto on your kyoto 1 day itinerary as there are all things to see in Kyoto in one day.

Walking alongside the wide Kamo River was absolutely stunning, I did not realise this side of Kyoto existed. In both directions of the running river ahead of me I could see the Mountains and I knew that the City of Kyoto was spread out between them.

Kamo River was a lovely place to walk in Kyoto and it took me to  Kyoto Park which is a huge rectangular Park in the Centre of Kyoto occupying a lot of space and is a nice place to walk around or enjoy a picnic in.

Kyoto Castle and Palace

Next up is another popular place to visit in Kyoto and that is Kyoto Castle and Palace aka Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace.

Unfortunately, this is not one of the free things to do in Kyoto and a ticket is needed to get into the Castle and Palace gates. The cost of entry to Kyoto Castle is 600Yen and 1000Yen for the Castle and Palace combined ticket.

I decided not to pay to enter as it was extremely busy and I was tight on time with only 1 day in Kyoto but the Castle was a good walking point to head to and I enjoyed walking the smaller streets that led me from Kyoto Park to Kyoto Castle.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

To end your day in Kyoto, lastly head to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove which is the  Kyoto Bamboo Forest. The reason I say to end here is because it is quite far out of the Centre of Kyoto.

To get to the Kyoto Bamboo Grove by public transport, at Kyoto Castle I got on the subway at Nijojo Mae Station  and carried on to the end of the line to Uzumasa-Tenjingawa Station and then got on another subway line to Arashiyama Station.

When getting the train to the Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, if you are getting a JR Line Train, be sure not to get on a rapid train as it doesn’t stop at Saga Arashiyama so make sure you check you’re getting a local train!

Kyoto Travel Tip – If you have a JR Pass , wherever possible always look for a JR line instead of a subway so you get the journey included in your pass and do not need to pay extra.

I knew the Bamboo Forest in Kyoto would be busy any other time than first thing in the morning and it was indeed a total tidal wave of people from the station all the way into the actual forest.

The Bamboo Forest in Kyoto for me had been really hyped up, especially on Instagram and I’ll say that I was a little disappointed in the fact that the actual line of Bamboo Trees that you see so many photos of really is not that long, looking up is of course very impressive and the Bamboo Tree’s are very unique but if it hadn’t been made famous online I don’t think it would be a great place to visit in Kyoto, and if you’re reading this and have no idea about this forest, I would go as far as saying if you only have one day in Kyoto you don’t need to push yourself to visit here.

Aside from the line of Bamboo Tree’s though there are lots of temples and there are more green spaces to wander and relax in, it was just way to busy for me in Cherry Blossom season to really enjoy it like this.

I did, however, enjoy the street food stalls that are located out by the road before the forest entry!

After visiting here I headed back to Saga Arashiyama on the JR line to Kyoto Station and then jumped on another JR train back to Osaka Station at about 16:00 meaning I had a nice day trip to Kyoto and definitely got some serious steps in as well as seeing this beautiful City.

JAPAN ON A BUDGET

Japan isn’t the cheapest country to travel but you can save money in Japan, here are my budget tips for Japan:

How to Save Money in Japan!

Free Things To Do in Japan!

Save Money with the JR Pass!

JAPAN ITINERARY

Here’s my 2 week Japan itinerary for first time visitors which will help you plan yours and you can adapt it whether you’re in Japan or longer or less time.

Accommodation in Kyoto

If you are able to stay in Kyoto for 1 or 2 nights, this is a great idea as it will mean you will have more time to explore in the morning and evening rather than taking the train back to Osaka.

Nice Hostels and Hotels I walked past and can see online have good reviews are:

The Limelight Kyoto

Bird Hostel

Ryokan Gion Hostel

For more accommodation in Kyoto, have a look at Booking.com here .

To SEE my day trip to Kyoto, watch my Youtube video here:

• For more of my Japan posts see:
• Visiting Himeji Castle on a Day Trip or as a Stop on the Train!
• My Complete Guide to Kobe & Why You Should Visit!
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ตะลอนเกียวโต 1 วัน: เที่ยวที่ฮิตในเกียวโต

เกียวโต 1 วัน: ตะลอนที่เที่ยวสุดฮิตในเกียวโต

แนะนำโปรแกรมเที่ยวเกียวโต 1 วัน: ตะลอนที่เที่ยวสุดฮิต ไม่ฮิตไม่ไป สำหรับคนเวลาน้อย จัดไป ปราสาทนิโจ – วัดคินคะคุจิ (วัดทอง) – ศาลเจ้ายาซากะ – สวนมารุยามะ – วัดคิโยมิสุ (วัดน้ำใส) – ตลาดนิชิกิ

1. ปราสาทนิโจ – Nijo Castle ปราสาทนิโจเป็นหนึ่งในปราสาทที่ได้ขึ้นทะเบียนเป็นมรดกโลก เป็นที่พักของท่านโชกุนโทคุกาวะ ซึ่งเป็นโชกุนคนแรกในสมัยเอโดะ ต่อมาถายหลังจึงได้ถูกเปลี่ยนให้เป็นปราสาท มีโครงสร้างทางสถาปัตยกรรมของญี่ปุ่นที่สวยงามอย่างมาก

ปราสาทนิโจ Nijo Castle

2. วัดคินคะคุจิ (วัดทอง) Kinkakuji Temple คนทั่วไปนิยมเรียกว่า “วัดทอง” เนื่องจากตัววัดนั้นเป็นสีทองเกือบทั้งหลัง ตั้งโดดเด่นเป็นเงาสะท้อนกับพื้นน้ำเบื้องหน้า มีโครงสร้างทางสถาปัตยกรรมที่งดงาม โดยเฉพาะมุมด้านหน้าใกล้กับทางเข้าวัดซึ่งเป็นภาพวัดสีทองอร่ามที่มีสวนอยู่โดยรอบเป็นเงาสะท้อนกับน้ำในสระ เป็นมุมที่มีนักท่องเที่ยวให้ความสนใจกันเยอะที่สุด

วัดคินคะคุจิ – Kinkakuji Temple | clementsgeoff.com

3. ศาลเจ้ายาซากะ – Yasaka-jinja Shrine ศาลเจ้ายาซากะหรือศาลเจ้ากิออน เป็นอีกหนึ่งศาลเจ้าที่มีชื่อเสียงในเกียวโต ถูกสร้างขึ้นประมาณ 1350 ปีก่อน ศาลเจ้านี้ตั้งอยู่ในย่านกิออนและย่านฮิกาชิยาม่า ภายในมีศาลาที่มีโคมไฟหลายร้อยอันแขวนอยู่ ถ้าในช่วงเย็นๆจะมีการเปิดไฟที่โคมสวยงามมาก ศาลเจ้านี้มีชื่อเสียงอย่างมากในการจัดเทศกาลเฉลิมฉลองกิออนมัทซุริ (Gion Matsuri) ในช่วงเดือนกรกฎาคมของทุกปี นอกจากนี้ในช่วงเดือนเมษายนที่มีดอกซากุระบานก็เป็นอีกหนึ่งสถานที่ที่ผู้คนนิยมมาท่องเที่ยวอีกด้วย

ศาลเจ้ายาซากะย่านกิอ้อน

4. ย่านฮิกาชิยาม่า – Higashiyama ย่านแหล่งเดินเล่นช้อปปิ้ง สองข้างทางเต็มไปด้วยร้านค้าร้านขนมมากมาย เส้นนี้เป็นทางเดินระหว่าง ศาลเจ้ายาซากะ (Yasaka) ไปจนถึงวัดคิโยะมิสุ (Kiyomizudera) เสน่ห์ของย่านนี้ก็คือรูปแบบอาคารบ้านเรือนร้านค้าที่ยังคงความเก่าแก่ จะเป็นถนนทางเดินแคบๆ สองข้างทางจะมีอาคารไม้ทรงโบราณแบบญี่ปุ่นดั้งเดิม ซึ่งเป็นทั้งร้านอาหาร ร้านขนมพื้นเมือง ให้ความรู้สึกถึงเมืองเก่าที่ยังคงมีความเป็นเอกลักษ์ของเกียวโตในสมัยก่อนอยู่

บรรยากาศตรอกฮิกาชิยามะ

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5. วัดคิโยมิสุ (วัดน้ำใส) – Kiyomizu-dera เป็นหนึ่งในวัดที่มีชื่อเสียงโด่งดังที่สุดของญี่ปุ่น เนื่องจากน้ำที่วัดนี้มาจากน้ำตกโอโตวะ (Otowa Waterfall) ไหลผ่านมายังวัดจึงเป็นที่มาของชื่อ “วัดน้ำใส” นอกจากนี้ยูเนสโกได้บันทึกให้วัดแห่งนี้ขึ้นเป็นมรดกโลก

6. ตลาดนิชิกิ – Nishiki Market ตลาดที่มีชื่อที่สุดในเกียวโต เป็นถนนสายช้อปปิ้งสายแคบๆ ความยาวประมาณห้าช่วงตึก มีร้านค้าและร้านอาหารมากกว่า 100 ร้านค้าเรียงรายกันอยู่ มีชื่อเสียงเป็นที่รู้จักกันดีเปรียบเสมือนถนนสายอาหารของเกียวโต หรือรู้จักในนาม “Kyoto’s Kitchen” ตลาดแห่งนี้เป็นตลาดที่เต็มไปด้วยทุกอย่างที่เกียวข้องกับอาหาร เช่น อาหารทะเลสดๆ, ภาชนะประกอบอาหาร, มีดญี่ปุ่น, และยังเป็นแหล่งที่มีชื่อเสียงที่มีอาหารตามฤดูกาลให้เลือกซื้อเลือกชิม นอกจากนี้ยังมีอาหารพื้นเมืองของเกียวโตอย่างเช่น ขนมหวานที่มีเฉพาะเมืองเกียวโต, ผักดอง, และของทะเลตากแห้งแปลกๆ และซูชิแบบดั้งเดิมของเกียวโตอีกด้วย

ตลาดนิชิกิ–Nishiki-Market | qiqiland.blogspot.com

แผนที่เส้นทางเที่ยว [nwm_map id=”1″ zoom=”12″]

ทีเด็ด เกียวโต(Kyoto)

รวม 22 ที่พักเกียวโต ย่านฮิต โรงแรมเด็ด นอนสบาย เดินทางสะดวก

แนะนำ 15 โรงแรมที่พักใกล้สถานีรถไฟเกียวโต เดินทางสะดวก นอนพักสบาย ราคาไม่แพง

แนะนำ 15 โรงแรมที่พักย่านคาวารามาจิ แหล่งช้อปปิ้งฮิต เกียวโต Kawaramachi

26 ที่เที่ยวเกียวโต เมืองแห่งศิลปะและวัฒนธรรม

24 ที่เที่ยวห้ามพลาดของเกียวโต เมืองหลวงเก่ามากเสน่ห์ของญี่ปุ่น

8 ร้านอาหารอร่อยในเกียวโต ราคาเริ่มต้นแค่ 100 เยน

แผนเที่ยว โอซาก้า เกียวโต ด้วยตัวเอง 6 วัน 5 คืน ได้ครบจบทุกอารมณ์ญี่ปุ่น

10 ขนมและของฝากดังๆจากเกียวโต ถูก ดี มีอยู่จริง

8 เรียวกังแบบญี่ปุ่นแท้ๆ ของเมืองเกียวโต

ข้อมูลเตรียมตัวเที่ยว เกียวโต(kyoto).

เที่ยวเกียวโต พักที่ไหนดี

ตั๋วรถไฟและรถบัสต่างๆในเกียวโต

การเดินทางทั้งหมดของเมืองเกียวโต

คู่มือเที่ยวญี่ปุ่น ครบจบในหน้าเดียว.

เรื่องอื่นๆใน แนะนำโปรแกรมเที่ยวญี่ปุ่น

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Kyoto One-Day Itinerary

If you’ve only got one full day in Kyoto, you’ll have to work fast and efficiently. This itinerary allows you to get a good sampling of what the city has to offer in just one day.

First: A Few Things to Keep in Mind

This route takes you through Kyoto’s main sightseeing district: Southern Higashiyama. This is a good route to do in the off-season (summer or winter). In high-season (spring and fall), it will be too crowded for comfort. If you will be in Kyoto in high-season, or simply like quieter spots, check out our Off the Beaten Track Itineraries . If you’ll be in town during cherry blossom season, check out our Kyoto Cherry Blossom Itinerary .

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Itinerary summary.

• Duration: 6 to 8 hours (not including evening stroll)
• Areas Covered: Southern Higashiyama, Downtown, Fushimi, (optional: Gion)
• Sights visited: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sannen and Ninen-zaka Area, Chion-in Temple, Shoren-in Temple, Downtown, Nishiki Market, Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine, and (optional) Gion Shimbashi

8:30am: Kiyomizu-dera Temple Take a bus or taxi to the Gojo-Kawaramachi intersection. The closest bus stop is Gojozaka. Walk up Gojo-zaka, which is the main street that leads east, up the hill, to Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Most likely, you can just follow the people. Halfway up, you can bear right up Chawan-zaka, which gets you away from most of the cars and buses. Enter the temple and fully explore the temple. Don’t forget to visit the wonderful Tainai-Meguri.

9:30am: Sannen-zaka and Ninnen-zaka , then Maruyama-koen Park After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, exit via the front of the temple and walk down Matsubara-dori Street (lined with shops) to reach the lovely preserved district of Sannen-zaka Hill. Continue down the street to where it flattens out and then go a bit further and take a right down into Ninnen-zaka, another lovely preserved district. You will come to a larger cross street with cars. Go left down the hill then quickly turn right into Nene-no-Michi, which is mostly free from cars. Follow this north, with one quick right-left jog to reach Maruyama-koen Park.

10:30am: Chion-in Temple Exit the north side of Maruyama-koen and follow the street north to the impressive main gate of Chion-in Temple. Climb the steep steps and enter the wide courtyard of Chion-in. The main hall is under construction how and will be for several years, so you don’t have to linger here. Return down the steps and continue north.

11:00am: Shoren-in Temple You’ll soon pass the enormous camphor trees in front of Shoren-in Temple. Enter the temple and enjoy a nice cup of green tea and a sweet while looking out over the garden.

11:45: Travel to Downtown Kyoto Exit Shoren-in and walk north (downhill) to reach Sanjo-dori Street. Walk a short distance west (left) on Sanjo-dori to reach Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line. Take it two stops west and get off at Kyoto Shiyakushomae (downtown).

Noon: Lunch Downtown There’s an almost endless selection of places to eat downtown. For some picks, check out our Downtown Kyoto District page.

1pm: Nishiki Market After eating lunch, make your way to the east end of Nishiki Market (where it joins the Teramachi Shopping Arcade ). It’s usually crowded here, even during the off-season. Hint: If you get tired of the crowds, you can bail by walking one block south and continuing along Shijo-dori Street.

2pm: Daimaru Basement Food Floor After you emerge from the west end of Nishiki, continue straight for a block and you’ll see Daimaru Department Store on your left. Go down the stairs in front of the entrance and enter the food floor. Explore the food floor and be sure to check out the Japanese sweets and tea section. 2:30pm: Take the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station

Exit Daimaru via the main entrance onto Shijo-dori Street. Walk east on Shijo-dori, across the Kamo-gawa River, and walk downstairs into Keihan Gion-Shijo Station. Take the Keihan Line south to Fushimi-Inari Station (all trains EXCEPT the limited express stop at Fushimi-Inari).

3pm: Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine The way is clearly marked from the station. Walk out of the station, take a left and walk up the hill, crossing the JR tracks. After crossing one relatively major street, you will see the first torii (gate) of the shrine. Walk up through this and you’ll shortly get to the main precinct of the shrine. Our Fushimi-Inari Hike gives a detailed route description. We don’t suggest doing the whole route on this day, but going up as far as Shin-ike Pond is a good idea.

Late Afternoon: Return to Hotel for Rest By this point, you’ll definitely be in need of a rest. Take either the Keihan Line or the JR Line back from Fushimi-Inari to central Kyoto, depending upon where in town you are staying.

7pm: Dinner Downtown Downtown Kyoto has the best selection of restaurants in town. For some picks, check out our Downtown Kyoto District page.

After Dinner: Gion Shimbashi After dinner, if you still have energy, a walk through Gion is a great idea. Start from Shijo-Ohashi Bridge (the big bridge on Shijo-dori over the Kamo-gawa River). At the east end of the bridge, cross Kawabata-dori and walk north on the east side of Kawabata for about 100 meters. You will soon see a tree-lined pedestrian lane. This is the end of Shirakawa-dori. Follow it east and you’ll get to the Shimbashi District (also known as Shirakawa), which is the most beautiful street in Kyoto. In busy seasons, it will be crowded with people. After checking it out, make your way through the alleys south to Shijo-dori and walk east to Shijo and cross over into Hanami-koji, another picturesque lane. This is geisha territory, so keep your eyes peeled.

You may also wish to consider the Must See Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary that I’ve written up separately.

It’s important to think about your hotel location for making the most of your time in Kyoto. See Where To Stay In Kyoto for a rundown of the most convenient Kyoto districts for sightseeing.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

The BEST Kyoto 1-Day Itinerary | Activities, Budget & More

If you’re planning to spend one day in Kyoto, you’re in the right place. A day trip to Kyoto will take you to a city where the old and new create the perfect skyline. A city where traditional meets modern.

No matter if you’re passionate about history, culture, food or nature, Kyoto has something for you. With stunning Japanese gardens, 1600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is a cultural melting pot. 

I visited Kyoto for a few days on my way from Osaka to Tokyo and  I absolutely loved it! If you’re planning your Japan itinerary , spending one day in this beautiful city is a must!

In this post, I’ll share with you everything you need to know to plan your Kyoto one day itinerary. Before getting into detail about this city’s tourist attractions, let’s talk about how to get to Kyoto.

1. How to get to Kyoto

The nearest airport to Kyoto is in Osaka. Osaka Kansai International Airport has amazing national and international connections but from there you’ll still have to take the train or a bus to reach Kyoto. 

Trains in Japan are blazing-fast, comfortable but not very affordable. However, if you plan to visit more than a city during your Japan trip, I recommend getting a  JR Pass  which includes unlimited train rides across Japan.

Trust me, you’ll save a lot of money with a JR Pass. The train connections are great and you can easily travel between cities like Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Tokyo or Hiroshima.

By bus 

Yes, trains in Japan are awesome but they are expensive too. If you have plenty of time and don’t mind spending a few extra hours on transport, you can easily travel around Japan by bus. 

You can take the bus from all major cities (Tokyo, Osaka) to Kyoto. To find out more about buses in Japan, click here . 

2. How to get around Kyoto

The easiest and fastest way to travel around Kyoto is by subway. The subway system works great and there are stations near all the major tourist attractions. 

Good to know: To save some money, you can buy a transport pass which will grant you access to buses, trains, and subway in the Kansai area. With this card, you won’t have to worry about buying tickets each time you want to use public transport. 

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3. Kyoto one day itinerary

Is one day in kyoto enough.

24 hours in Kyoto might not seem like much, but it’s more than enough to experience the city’s vibe and visit the most important tourist attractions. However, don’t expect it to be a relaxing day.

You’ll have to wake up early in the morning and walk a lot. You’ll start the day by visiting two of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashyiama Bamboo Forest . It’s best to visit these first since they are located quite far from the city.

After visiting the Bamboo Forest, you’ll return to the city center and explore a few other fascinating attractions. So, are you ready? Here are the things to do in Kyoto in one day.

Good to know: I recommend getting a Kyoto sightseeing pass   which includes free entrance fee to all the major tourist attractions in Kyoto. 

Explore the beautiful Fushimi Inari Shrine

Our Kyoto one day trip starts with a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Even if the name doesn’t sound familiar, I’m sure you’ve seen hundreds of pictures with this shrine. The traditional red gates called Senbon torii makes Fushimi Inari Shrine one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Kyoto.

There are more than 1,000 torii gates along the main path. The reason why there are so many red gates is that between 1603 and 1868 the custom was to donate a torii to make a wish come true or to thank for a wish that became true.

-> Read more about Japan here

Make sure to wake up early in the morning and get to this shrine as early as possible. Fushimi Inari is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists so it gets extremely busy during the day.

Although this shrine is beautiful and the perfect place to learn more about the Japanese culture, I’ve found it a bit too busy for my taste. Don’t be disappointed if all your photos will have dozens of tourists in the background.

How to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine –  take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto

Entrance fee – FREE

Be amazed by Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

One day in Kyoto would never be complete without a stop at Arashiyama . This forest was a big surprise for me. I expected it to be “just” a bamboo forest but it ended up being unreal. Walking along the tall bamboo pillars is a truly unique experience.

The forest is part of Sagano Bamboo Forest and it consists of a series of paths surrounded by beautiful bamboo. A walk inside Arashiyama Forest feels like a breath of fresh air from the noise and crowdedness of Kyoto.

While visiting the forest, I recommend taking a short detour and visiting the Tenryū-ji Temple too. The entrance fee to the temple is 500 JPY but it’s worth it.

How to get to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest –  the fastest way is to take the train from Kyoto.

Good to know:  A  JR Pass  is what you need if you plan to travel a lot inside the Kansai area. With it you’ll get unlimited train rides!

Go shopping at Nishiki Market & Teramachi Street

Our Kyoto one-day itinerary continues with a short session of shopping. A stop at  Teramachi Street is a must. With many local shops selling kimonos, clothes, accessories and home decor, this street is perfect for buying souvenirs.

After a shopping spree and some tiring sightseeing, it’s time to head to Nishiki Market and try some of the local delicacies. Here you will find anything from pickles to seafood and fried meat. 

Don’t hesitate to try some of the local dishes! Everything is simply delicious! Read my full guide about this shopping district here .

How to get to Nishiki Market and Teramachi Street –  take the subway from Arashiyama and change at Matsuo-Taisha Station.

Admire the Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrines is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto. Don’t be surprised if you see locals dressed in kimonos taking photos here.

It’s a very popular place for photo shoots. At the entrance of the temple, there are a few kimono rental places, in case you want to blend in and wear a beautiful kimono.

After visiting the temple, take a few minutes to walk around the Maruyama Park, situated right after the temple. It’s a great way to relax and unwind. Nobody said that visiting Kyoto in one day would be easy.

How to get to Yasaka Shrine – from Temabashi Street, Yasaka Shrine is just a short walk away

Find a geisha in Gion

A Kyoto day trip is never complete without visiting the famous Gion neighborhood. Have you read the “Memoirs of a geisha”? Or maybe, you’ve seen the movie. Yes, geishas are real and even though it’s an old tradition, they are still present in Kyoto today.

If you want to see a real-life geisha, head to Gion at 5.45 pm sharp. That’s when the geishas leave their homes to go to their appointments. Most of them will walk on back alleys to avoid tourists but you can also try to wait at Tatsumi Bridge.

If you want to make sure that you see a geisha, you can book a guided tour . You’ll also get the chance to learn more about the daily life of a geisha. 

When we visited Kyoto, I had the chance to see a maiko (geisha apprentice) and two geishas. They are extremely beautiful and it was an honor for me to see them. They are living works of art.

Good to know: Don’t try to stop them for photos. I’m sure they’re tired of all the tourists stopping them and asking for photos. You can photograph them from distance and still admire their beauty.

Seeing a geisha is the perfect end to your one day of sightseeing in Kyoto. Are you also planning to visit Osaka or Nara ? Read below my recommendations. 

Other AWESOME things to do in Kyoto:

• Visit Kyoto Tower
• Rent a kimono
• Take a day tour to explore the city!

4. What to visit beyond Kyoto

Good to know: If you plan more cities in Japan, I recommend getting a  transport pass .  A pass is less expensive than buying separate train tickets. It’s convenient and affordable.

Explore beautiful Osaka

If you want to explore more of Japan, I recommend visiting the incredible Osaka for a few days. This beautiful city has something for everyone. If you’re in search of adrenaline, you can visit Universal Studios Japan , if you’re passionate about culture, you can spend a few hours at the Osaka Castle.

If you like Pokemon, I totally recommend paying a visit to the  Pokemon Center.  Discover your favorite characters and bring your inner child to life! You can read more about Osaka here . 

Good to know: With   Osaka City Pass  for 1 or 2 days you’ll get free access to most of this city’s tourist attractions. This pass will save you lots of money. The pass also includes free transport around the city.

Explore Japan’s cutest city – Nara

Nara is the city where cute deer roam free. You’ll see them on the streets, inside the parks, on the sidewalks, everywhere! Nara is definitely my favorite city in Japan.

Buy some deer crackers and be ready to make some deer friends. They’re friendly and looking for attention! If you want to read more about Nara, you can check out my complete guide about this incredible city here .

5. Where to stay in Kyoto

I’ve searched for the best hotels in Kyoto, for each budget. If you’re looking for a good value for money hotel to spend one or more nights, I’ve got you covered. Here are my recommendations:

• Luxury –  Hotel Granvia  – beautiful pool, incredible views, excellent location, comfortable & luxurious rooms, breakfast included
• Mid Budget –  Solaria Hotel Premier  – excellent location, incredible architecture & views, clean & modern rooms, excellent facilities
• Budget –  Sanjo Okawa  – good location, clean & spacious rooms, good WiFi, access to washing machine

If you were wondering what to do in Kyoto in one day, I hope that this blog post helped you. It won’t be easy to visit all the main tourist attractions in one day but it’s totally doable. I am sure you’ll love Kyoto as much as I did.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments section below.

May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

Planned to visit Kyoto for 2 days after my Tokyo trip and my itinerary shall include Fushimi Inari Shrine on day 1 and Arashyiama Bamboo Forest on day 2.

Will you be able to advise me which pass to purchase?

Hey! I am sure you will love Kyoto! I recommend getting this pass for 2 days – https://www.klook.com/activity/9882-kyoto-osaka-sightseeing-pass-japan?aid=8265

Hi there This is great! thanks for posting. 2 quick questions, how far apart are the shrines and the bamboo forest, which should i actually do first? How do I get from one to the other? MissN

Hi! I recommend taking the train or subway. You should visit first the one that you’re the most excited about! The earlier you visit one of these attractions, the less tourists you’ll see.

Hi really liked this site 🙂 We are a mother & son (20 years old) who plan to be in Kyoto for 2 half days – will reach Kyoto around 1 PM in the afternoon & will leave around 2 PM next day afternoon. We are coming in the third week of March. We want to experience the best of Kyoto & also try sleeping in a capsule hotel. What would be your recommendations on some must dos & place to stay?

Hey. I’ve included all my recommendations in this post! There are so many awesome places to see! Have fun!

Hi, thank you for your very helpful travel guide to kyoto. Is there any way you can recommend a travel package for 1day in kyoto. We are 8 pax with an infant and a senior citizen traveller. Thanks .

Hey. I recommend this tour – https://www.klook.com/activity/646-kyoto-afternoon-exploration?aid=8265 . It’s perfect to see the highlights of the city!

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1 Day Kyoto Itinerary: Best Attractions For A Day Trip

Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan , is one of the most visited  tourist destinations in Japan . As its cultural capital, it shouldn’t surprise you that there are many attractions in Kyoto, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and many more. This 1 day Kyoto itinerary will cover some of the best things to do in Kyoto in 1 day. However, if I must be honest, 24 hours in Kyoto is not sufficient to see all the amazing sights it is known for. It is advised to stay at least 2 days in Kyoto to see all the main attractions. However, we understand that sometimes you are time-restricted and you might just have one day in Kyoto. In our Kyoto itinerary, we will cover the things you must do in Kyoto in one day and how to maximize your time ! We’ll also talk about visiting Kyoto on a day trip, including where to depart from, what to see, and if it is worth doing!

Planning A Trip To Kyoto Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended airport transfer to Kyoto:

• Private Airport Transfer from Kansai International Airport To City Center

Our recommended tours in Kyoto:

• Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide (Must-have if you want to learn in-depth about Kyoto Culture)
• Tea Ceremony at Jotokuji Temple (Unique part of Japanese culture)
• Guided Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto’s Geisha District

Our recommended places to stay in Kyoto:

• Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (Has its own natural hot spring!)
• Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi (Great value-for-money)
• Ryokan Hostel Gion (Where we stay every time we’re in Kyoto!)

Guide To 1 Day In Kyoto

Kyoto tourist map: 1 day kyoto itinerary attractions.

This is the personalized Kyoto tourist map you will use to visit all the things you must see in Kyoto in one day.

Clicking on the star next to the name of the map will allow you to save it onto your own personal device, making it much easier when you are looking for each thing to do in Kyoto. Since this 1 day itinerary in Kyoto, you won’t be able to cover all of the attractions in Kyoto.

The red circles on the map are what I consider the best attractions in Kyoto. Under no circumstances should you switch them out unless you have been there before.

The blue stars on the Kyoto attractions map are the alternatives you could use to replace the main attractions. They are also great places to visit in Kyoto if you plan on staying for two days . 

The green question marks are all the “average” attractions in Kyoto. Some of these places are UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Ryoanji temple. They are by no means bad places to see but are not as good as the must-visit attractions.

Kyoto One Day Pass

Many tourists that visit Kyoto in 1 day are tempted to buy the Kyoto one day pass because they think it will save them money.  Let me tell you why that might not be the case. 

There are two types of passes that are worth considering:

• One-day bus and subway pass
• One-day bus pass. 

Costing only 900 yen for 1 day, most travelers are tempted to buy the Kyoto one-day bus + subway pass to save money. It is true that with that pass, you can visit all the attractions in this Kyoto itinerary.

The problem is, it might not be the most convenient or fastest way . The Kyoto one-day pass doesn’t cover all the transportation in Kyoto, such as the JR lines or even the trams. The buses are also infrequent, inconsistent, crowded, and often stuck in traffic. If you only have 24 hours in Kyoto, this is your worst nightmare. 

For those reasons, I recommend you to NOT buy the Kyoto one-day pass. 

Step-By-Step Itinerary of The Best Things To Do In Kyoto In 1 Day

Morning: arashiyama bamboo grove, tenryu-ji, nishiki market.

Welcome to Kyoto and good luck!! You have a long day ahead of you. This 1 day in Kyoto itinerary covers a lot of the things you must see in Kyoto. 

Before you start your first attraction on the Kyoto 1 day itinerary, make sure you have a good breakfast. If your accommodation doesn’t offer breakfast, my favorite place in town for a quick breakfast is either 7-Eleven or Lawson .

Unlike the 7-Eleven in the western part of the world, 7-Eleven in Japan offers nutritious and affordable meals. Try some of the onigiris, egg sandwiches, or even pancakes! 

Your first stop will be the  Arashiyama bamboo grove , also called the Arashiyama bamboo forest. One of the best things to do in Kyoto, the Arashiyama bamboo grove gets crowded quite easily. Sprawling with countless number of soaring bamboo trees, it is quite an unworldly feeling when you are alone.

For that reason, you will arrive no later than 8:30 AM . In the early morning, there are fewer people and you can feel the real magic of the Arashiyama bamboo forest. It will also guarantee you will photograph the best picture of the bamboo grove!

Trust me, it is worth the effort! 

The best way to arrive at the Arashiyama bamboo grove is via the JR San-In Line , also known as the JR Sagano Line. Take the JR San-In line to Saga-Arashiyama station and the bamboo forest is a 15-minute walk away. If you have  Japan Rail Pass , all JR lines are free!

After you are done strolling around the Arashiyama bamboo grove, head over to  Tenryu-ji . Within a walking distance from the bamboo forest, it is the best way to hit two birds with one stone.

Not only is Tenryu-ji one of the most famous Zen temples in Kyoto, but it is also one of its proud UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Come stroll around the historic buildings and the tranquil gardens, it has a sense of serenity unlike anywhere else.

Aim to leave Arashiyama no later than 10:30 AM.

The next stop on your 1 day in Kyoto itinerary is  Nishiki Market . There are many options to get there from Arashiyama. My favorite is taking the Randen and switching to the Hankyu-Kyoto Line . The Randen is the last tram line in Kyoto and takes you on a beautiful sightseeing journey.

Once you arrive at Nishiki market, spend some time wandering around. Nishiki market is the biggest food market place in Kyoto, specializing in many of Kyoto’s specialties . Though the Nishiki market only spans 5 blocks , there are over hundreds of stalls, and some have been there for centuries.

One of the best places for Japanese street food , don’t hesitate to try anything that fancies you. My favorite snack was definitely the octopus on the skewer . Though slightly unsettling at first, once you bite into the head, you will be fully intrigued. Trust me!

Don’t walk and eat at the same time! In Japanese culture, it is one of the most disrespectful things you can do!

You are probably tempted to spend your 24 hours in Kyoto here sampling the local seafood, trying the pickled vegetables, shopping for souvenirs, but there are still plenty of amazing things to see. 

Grab your lunch in the surrounding area but remember to leave Nishiki Market no later than 1 PM. What is next on the itinerary? The famous  Fushimi Inari Taisha .

Afternoon: Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera

To get to Fushimi Inari Taisha from Nishiki Market, the quickest one is to take the Keihan Main line at Gion-Shijo station to Fushimi Inari station. The journey is about half an hour.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most important Shinto shrines located in Kyoto. Famous for the thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that reach the top of the sacred Mount Inari , Fushimi Inari Taisha is as beautiful as it is important.

Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine is the most important shrine dedicated to the Shinto god Inari , the goddess of rice . And I don’t think I need to tell you how important rice is for the Japanese, it is almost in all of their cuisines. The fox statues you will see as you ascend up Mount Inari are the messengers of Inari.

Many travelers already know Fushimi Inari Shrine as one of the top sights in Kyoto, but many do not do that it is actually a hike! The trail to the top of Mount Inari takes about 2 hours one way.

With the frequency of the torii gates decreasing and not much to see at the summit, it is not recommended you hike all the way up.

However, do spend 45 minutes to an hour hiking up to the Yotsu-Tsuji intersection . A great viewpoint with a few houses and shops, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of Kyoto. Though there are a lot fewer tourists beyond this point, the torii gates offer no variation.

The Yotsu-Tsuji intersection is the highest point you will hike up to.

When you are ready, head back down. You want to head down at least 2 hours before sunset because the next attraction is the best place in Kyoto to watch the sunset! This depends on the month you are visiting Kyoto, so make sure you check the sunset time beforehand!

The next thing to see on the 1 day Kyoto itinerary is  Kiyomizu-dera , or the “Pure Water Temple”.

To arrive at Kiyomizu-dera from Fushimi Inari Taisha, you will take the Keihan Main line from Fushimi-Inari station to Kiyomizu-Gojo station. Then you will walk for about 20 minutes to arrive at Kiyomizu-dera. It might be tempting to take a bus but the buses are infrequent, unreliable, and often crowded. It is better to walk.

On your way to the temple, you will go through the Higashiyama district . Filled with cool shops and beautiful traditional streets, it might be tempting to stop and look around. We will come back to this place after Kiyomizu-dera, don’t worry!

Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Japan . Founded in 778, this religious relic is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto. Featuring many different buildings inside with different significance, it is a great way to learn about traditional Japanese culture. 

Check out the Otowa waterfall and its wish-granting water. The waterfall’s water is divided into three streams and they all have different effects. But drink from all three and you are considered greedy and none of your wishes will be granted.

Afterward, head over to the Jishu Shrine , a shrine dedicated to the god of love . In front of the shrines are 2 stones places 18 meters apart. Anyone that can navigate from one stone to the other with their eyes closed is promised to have everlasting love!

Visitors can also rent a kimono in Kiyomizu-dera if they want! 

Besides being an important historic temple, Kiyomizu-dera is one of the best places in Kyoto to watch the sunset . It is exactly why we saved it for the last thing to do in Kyoto before the night sets in.

Head over to the Butai , or otherwise known as “Kiyomizu’s wooden stage”. This wooden stage is where you will watch the beautiful sunset over the beautiful city of Kyoto. If you are lucky enough to come during autumn or cherry blossom season , the view will even be more spectacular. Either way, you will be stunned by Kyoto’s beauty .

Keep in mind the opening hours of the Kiyomizu-dera temple change with the seasons. It opens at 6 AM daily and can close anytime from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. If there are seasonal illumination events, such as the cherry blossom event, the temple might close as late as 9 PM. 

Night: Yasaka Pagoda, Higashiyama District, Gion, Shirakawa Canal

After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, head back down the same way you came. You will do a little bit of exploring in the  Higashiyama District , one of the most well-preserved traditional districts in Kyoto. Dainty wooden buildings, old narrow roads, the Higashiyama District is a glimpse of the past when Kyoto was the capital of Japan. 

Make sure you stop by  Ninenzaka  and  Yasaka-dori  (No.5 and 6 on the map) on the way. These two spots are some of the greatest places to catch a glimpse of  Yasaka Pagoda , considered one of the most beautiful places at  night in Kyoto ! It is also one of the best places for photography in Kyoto!

The rest of this Kyoto one day itinerary will have you explore the Higashiyama District and Gion District. There are no time restrictions, trains to catch, or closing hours you have to make. Take your time and explore at your pace, going down the narrow alleys and checking out the wooden merchant shops.

Kyoto is known as the cultural capital of Japan and you can really see it in the streets of Higashiyama. After visiting Yasaka-dori, make your way to  Hanamikoji street .

Located in the  Gion  district, Hanamikoji street is one of the oldest streets in Kyoto and the one that you are most likely to see a Geisha or Maiko strolling down the street. Originating from the 18th century, Geishas and Maikos are an important part of traditional Japanese culture. With years of practice in arts, dance, and singing, their main role is solely to entertain the clients in ochayas (traditional tea houses).

The difference between Maikos and Geishas are that Maikos are apprentice Geishas, and you can usually tell the difference in their clothing and accessories. 

There are only a handful of Geishas and Maiko that live in Kyoto, so it is a rare occurrence that you encounter one while walking in the Gion District. However, if you do see one, please don’t intrude on them and disturb their lives. They are usually on their way to work or home, and none of them would appreciate the aggressiveness. 

For more information on Geishas and Maikos culture, check out here .

When you are in Gion district, make sure you stop by  Shirakawa Canal . The tranquility of the water along with the timeless wooden houses along the street creates a unique ambiance, it is almost as if you just stepped into a time machine . 

This is the end of the one day in Kyoto itinerary! At this point you must be tired, go grab some dinner in the area or go to downtown Kyoto. Make sure you try some of the traditional dishes of Japan such as sushi, ramen, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and more. The  ramen in Kyoto  is some of the best in Japan! 

Alternative Attractions to the 1 Day Kyoto Itinerary

In this section, we will talk about other attractions that we didn’t make the cut in our Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

• Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji)  

One of the most impressive Zen Buddhist Kyoto temples. Its top two floors are completely covered in gold, showing the luxury Kitayama culture during the Yoshimitsu reign.

The 1 day itinerary in Kyoto doesn’t include Kinkakuji simply because it is too far and only accessible with the rather inconvenient buses. Probably the best UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, you should visit it if you have 2 days in Kyoto. If you must see this on your Kyoto trip, swap it out for one of the other attractions.

• Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)

Ginkakuji is a Zen Buddhist temple built a few decades after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). Unlike the Golden Pavilion that is partially covered with gold, the Silver Pavilion is not covered in silver. However, the Silver Pavilion is not as crowded as the Golden Pavilion and is a perfect place to feel zen and tranquil. 

• Philosopher’s Path

A path right outside of Ginkakuji, you can easily pair this attraction with a visit to Ginkakuji. The Philosopher’s Path is one of the best streets for cherry blossoms in Kyoto but it is rather unimpressive during the other seasons.

However, if you are looking for some peace and quiet, this could be the perfect place for you to see.

• Kyoto FREE Walking Tour

The Kyoto free walking tour runs every day in the morning. The schedule can be found on their website  here . It is a 2.5-hour walking tour and the guide gives you a lot of information about the city of Kyoto and its history.

• Kyoto Tower

The viewing tower of Kyoto Tower is one of the best places for a panoramic view of Kyoto. However, you have already been to places like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera. Kyoto Tower will seem repetitive compared to those. 

Where To Stay In Kyoto To Maximize Your 1 Day In Kyoto

Best Hostel in Kyoto –  K’s House Kyoto: Backpackers Hostel

If you are looking for a backpacker’s hostel in Kyoto, then consider K’s House Kyoto: Backpackers Hostel. Hostels in Japan aren’t known to be particularly social but K’s House boasts many common areas for guests to meet and a nice bar to help loosen everyone up!

The facilities, like the rest of Japan, are clean and top-notch. It is also like you are staying in a hotel but for the price of a hostel.

Best Vacation Rental / Airbnb in Kyoto –  Private Kyomachiya with Garden

( Images Courtesy of Vrbo) One of the best ways to experience the culture in Kyoto is by staying at one of the traditional Japanese homes in Kyoto! These are called Machiya , but in Kyoto, they are called Kyomachiya. Luckily, there are plenty of vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Kyoto. This private Kyomachiya is a traditional Japanese wooden house that features a beautiful garden. Guests can also experience what it is like to sleep on a tatami mat! One of the most outstanding features of this vacation rental is the location. Its central location near Gojo subway station means that you can walk to some of the best sights in Kyoto in a short amount of time.

Best Luxury Hotel in Kyoto –  The Share Hotels Rakuro Kyoto

The Share Hotels Rakuro Kyoto is a meticulously clean and modern hotel in Kyoto. It is known to be some clean that you can eat your meal off the floor, not that we would recommend it. The hotel has nice and comfortable decor, creating a feeling of home. Breakfast is included, free coffee throughout the day, a bar on-site, and much more are offered here at The Share Hotels. 

How To Get Around Kyoto?

Luckily for travelers with only 1 day in Kyoto, this ancient capital of Japan is quite easy to get around. The city is well connected by public transportation such as the subways, trains, and city buses. Most of these attractions on our itinerary are no more than a 5 to 10 minute walk from the nearest subway station.

On our itinerary, it is totally feasible to get around with public transportation, especially since Japanese public transport is always on time. However, if you find yourself behind schedule, it might not be a bad idea to take a taxi.

Many of the places to visit in Kyoto are situated in the center, so going on foot is also an option. Just make sure you pack some nice comfortable walking shoes because you’ll be doing lots of walking!

Taking A Day Trip To Kyoto

If you are short on time, you might consider taking a day trip to Kyoto and following our itinerary above, especially if you are staying in Osaka.

From Osaka, it is definitely doable to take a day trip to Kyoto, since it takes less than half an hour to travel between the two cities by train. Even from Nara, another popular destination in the Kansai region, only takes less than an hour to arrive in Kyoto.

With that said, it is totally feasible to turn our itinerary above into a Kyoto day trip itinerary . Please allow extra time for commuting and you should be all set.

However, if you are planning to take a Kyoto day trip from Tokyo, it isn’t really feasible since it takes a minimum of 3 hours to get there, even with the Japanese bullet train.

How To Get To Kyoto?

Getting to Kyoto by air is the simplest way to get to this historical Japanese city. The nearest airport to Kyoto is the Kansai International Airport , which is about 100 km (62 mi) away by car.

The Kansai Airport has both domestic and international connections, so it is very likely you’ll be arriving here if you are taking a flight. From the Kansai Airport, you can take the JR Haruka express passenger train that operates between Kyoto Station to Kansai International Airport.

Alternatively, you can get a private airport transfer or rent a car!

Getting to Kyoto by train is as simple as getting there by air. Kyoto Station is one of the most prominent stops on the Shinkansen lines. This allows travelers to get to Kyoto from almost every destinations in the country in a timely manner.

If you are traveling in Japan by train frequently, we recommend getting the JR Pass. This gives you unlimited selected train rides in Japan for a certain period of time. This includes the Shinkansen, which is very expensive without the JR Pass.

It is also possible to get to Kyoto by bus, but they are not as common as other modes of public transportation. Although they are well connected, and often times slightly more affordable than trains, they are just not as fast as trains.

Buses also depart in only selected places in the city, whereas you can depart from any train station. With that said, it is possible to get from Tokyo, Osaka, Nara, or Kobe to Kyoto with the bus!

Visiting Kyoto FAQs

How many days in kyoto is enough.

Three days in Kyoto is the perfect amount of time to explore all of its attractions leisurely. However, if you are short on time, it is possible to see Kyoto in two days, but it’ll be stressful.

Do You Need A Car For Kyoto?

Just like most of Japan, the public transportation in Kyoto is very reliable and quick, so you won’t need to rent a car. Matter of fact, renting a car in Kyoto is probably going to hinder your sightseeing because you’ll need to find parking.

Is One Day In Kyoto Enough?

24 hours in Kyoto might not seem like a lot of time, but it is just enough to see the main sights of Kyoto. However, you’ll have to wake up really early and spend the entire day sightseeing, which might not be the relaxing vacation you had hoped for.

Like this post? Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest! 🙂

This concludes the 1 day Kyoto itinerary! I hope this guide helped you determine the things to do in Kyoto in one day. Any question? Leave them in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

4 thoughts on “1 Day Kyoto Itinerary: Best Attractions For A Day Trip”

Thank you for this post about Kyoto. My family and I have been to Kyoto last March 2020, just about before the lockdown for the pandemic started, thus we weren’t able to explore much. We just went to Arashimaya Bamboo Forest, and to the Silver Pavilion. We are coming back this November. We will stay in Osaka, but we want to visit Kyoto just for the day and go back to Osaka after dinner. This time around, we want to see the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, the Gion District, Higashimaya District. May I ask for your suggestion as how we can make this itinerary work for us? Thank you very much!

Hey Ivy, you can easily go from Osaka to Kyoto via the train. And since you don’t have much you want to see, you’ll have plenty of time to see the sights you want even if you stay in Osaka! I would recommend starting with the Golden Pavilion first, then going to Gion and Higashimaya District, and finally going up to Fushimi Inari Shrine near sunset time!

Great list, thank you! My cousin and I just wrapped up a 24 hour stay and did nearly your entire list of suggestions. We also agree that one day simply isn’t enough!

You could stay for a week and probably not see all of its sights! It’s such an amazing place!

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เที่ยวเกียวโต แบบไม่ซ้ำใคร! แจกเส้นทางฟรีๆ 1 day trip

ทุบสถิติความร้อนไปแล้วสำหรับหน้าร้อนในปีนี้ของญี่ปุ่น ใครๆก็บ่นเป็นเสียงเดียวกันว่าร้อนสุดๆไม่แพ้เมืองไทย สำหรับใครที่จองตั๋วไปญี่ปุ่นช่วงนี้อาจจะต้องทำใจหน่อย แต่สำหรับใครที่จะไป เที่ยวเกียวโต เรามีวันเดย์ทริปสำหรับหลบร้อนที่ฟินสุดๆ การันตีเลยว่าจะได้ประสบการณ์แบบอันซีนที่ไม่เคยเห็นในรีวิวแน่นอน  “ถ้ามีคำถามๆให้ลองตอบว่าชอบภูเขาหรือทะเล” เพลงภูเขาและทะเลเป็นคำตอบที่ยากมากสำหรับคนที่ชอบทั้งภูเขาและทะเลอย่างเรา เมื่อตอนไปเรียนต่อที่เกียวโต ก็เลยรักที่นี่มาก เพราะมีทั้งภูเขาและทะเล เกียวโตก็มีทะเล ว่าแล้วก็พาคุณผู้อ่านไปเที่ยวทะเลทางตอนเหนือของเกียวโตดีกว่า

1 Day in Kyoto Sea Side Amanohashitate – Funaya

Amanohashitate สะพานแห่งสรวงสวรรค์.

ฟูนายะ เคยโด่งดังเมื่อหลายปีก่อนเพราะเป็นโลเคชั่นถ่ายหนังและละครหลายเรื่อง แต่ด้วยตอนนี้สภาพเศรษฐกิจและสังคมที่เปลี่ยนไปทำให้คนที่ประกอบอาชีพชาวประมงลดลงหรือไม่มีผู้สืบทอดจนต้องเลิกหรือย้ายไปอยู่ที่อื่น ทำให้ตอนนี้มีฟูนายะแบบนี้เหลืออยู่เพียง 230 หลัง กิจกรรมล่องเรือชมรอบอ่าวจึงกลายเป็นอาชีพเสริมของคนในชุมชน  น้ำทะเลที่นี่ใสสะอาดมาก ใสจนมองเห็นพื้นทะเล ขนาดเป็นโซนที่อยู่อาศัยเรายังไม่เห็นขยะหรือคราบน้ำมันเลย และช่วงนี้เป็นช่วงวันหยุดฤดูร้อนเลยเห็นเด็กๆกระโดดน้ำเล่นหน้าบ้าน รู้สึกว่ายังไงๆการเล่นทะเลในหน้าร้อนก็ยังเป็นความสุขอันสามัญของคนทุกชาติอยู่ดี การชมฟูนายะให้ได้อรรถรส เราแนะนำให้เช่าเรือของไกด์ชาวประมงท้องถิ่น คุณลุงไกด์เล่าเรื่องได้สนุกมากๆได้ความรู้และความฟินอย่างมากเลยล่ะ วิธีการเดินทาง 2 ชั่วโมง โดยรถไฟ จากสถานีเกียวโต สู่สถานี Fukushiyama เปลี่ยนสายไป Kyoto Tango สู่สถานี Amanohashitate จากสถานี Amanohashitate เดินทางต่อไปยังสถานี Iwatakiguchi เพื่อไปยัง Funaya แนะนำ Pass : Kyoto Sea Area Pass

มาที่ภูเขากันบ้าง อย่างที่ทราบกันว่า เกียวโตนั้นถูกโอบล้อมด้วยภูเขา มีเสน่ห์ดั่งถูกต้องมนตร์ และภูเขานี่แหละ เอาชนะความร้อนที่พื้นด้านล่างได้อยู่หมัด

1 day in kurama-kibune.

กิจกรรมเยอะขนาดนี้ บางทีก็คิดว่าวันเดียวก็ไม่พอ…!!!

วิธีการเดินทาง จากสถานีรถไฟใต้ดิน Demachiyanagi เปลี่ยนขึ้นรถไฟสาย Eizan ลงที่สถานที Kuramaguchi ขอบคุณข้อมูลจาก amanohashidate.jp และ kyotostation.com

ชอบ บทความ มัชรูมทราเวล ทำไงดี…? 1.กด แชร์ ต่อ ให้เพื่อนอ่านบ้าง 2. คลิก Like และ ติดตามเราได้ที่ Facebook  www.facebook.com/mushroomtravel/

Mushroom travel มีโปรแกรม ทัวร์ญี่ปุ่น  ให้เลือกมากที่สุด โทร. 02-105-6234 (30 คู่สาย) [email protected] line id : @mushroomtravel.

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8 day trips from Kyoto for history, deer, street food and much more

Jan 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Within an hour or so from Kyoto, historic castles, beautiful canals, nature and much more awaits © PR Image Factory / Shutterstock

Kyoto offers a tantalizing glimpse of ancient Japan – which is why it's one of the most popular destinations in the country. Might we suggest escaping the temple crowds by exploring an alluring spot nearby?

Its position at the heart of the Kansai region makes Kyoto a handy base for hopping on a train to explore fairy-tale castles, go on tasting journeys in matcha towns and float along ancient canals. 

Each of these itineraries is accessible by train in under two hours. As you plan, keep in mind that if you plan to make several trips within a five-day period, you should consider a Kansai WIDE Area Pass . (All routes are covered by this or a Japan Rail Pass , except in Hiroshima, as noted below.)

These are the most rewarding day trips from Kyoto.

1. Find your favorite matcha in Uji

Travel time: 20 minutes

Mmm…matcha. Green-tea-obsessed Uji lies just next door to Kyoto, yet draws far fewer crowds. Meander along its Omotesando laneway, dipping in and out of charming stores dedicated to selling locally sourced green tea. Pause in cafes to try matcha-flavored treats – ice cream or soba noodles (or both). As you hold up a skewer of dango to the light, you'll first see the scorch marks, then taste them as you chew through the rice-cake balls. The flavors dance between chargrilled, bitter tea and sweet rice. 

At the laneway's end, the vermilion Byōdō-in  seems to spread its wings and levitate above a green pond (a sight immortalized on the 10-yen coin). The temple's Phoenix Hall is an excellent example of architecture from the Heian Period; after taking in the ambiance, linger in the gardens and delightful tea salon for an hour. If you want more Heian history, explore the on-site Hoshokan Museum to ponder a temple bell and other Buddhist treasures.

Japanese literature enthusiasts should make a visit to the Tale of Genji Museum, dedicated to Murasaki Shikibu's famous 11th-century work (perhaps the world's first-ever novel). The exhibits provide insights into the portion of the narrative that unfolds in Uji.

Cross the Uji River to visit teahouses where artisans demonstrate how to brew the perfect green tea. In summer, finishing the half-day with a cruise in a wooden boat on the river is a pleasant finale indeed – cormorant-fishing demonstrations optional.

How to get to Uji from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara line to JR Uji Station.

2. Encounter history – and deer – in Nara

Travel time: 1 hour

When you come eye to eye with the deer in Nara , you might decide for yourself if, as legend has it, they are divine messengers from the heavens. The 1000-plus placid deer that roam leafy Nara-kōen are an iconic symbol of Japan's first imperial capital. (Feel free to feed the free-roaming deer with crackers sold on-site.) You can take in plenty of Nara's history-rich sights while you're in the park, including the Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji , who is seated with an open hand as tall as a person. Early risers: if you get to Nara by 9am, it's worth observing morning prayers within the splendor of vermilion and cedar shrine pavilions at Kasuga Taisha . 

How to get to Nara from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a 55-minute Rapid train on the JR Nara line to Nara Station.

3. Climb Japan's best-preserved castle at Himeji-jō

Tilting your head skywards to be dazzled by the five splendid white stories of Himeji-jō is the stuff of Japanese fairy tales. In fact, the "White Heron" castle has been showcased in movies and TV series aplenty – which is no wonder, given how rare it is to find a truly intact (and not reconstructed) medieval castle in Japan. 

Himeji-jō is a stunner, and it's worth visiting early to beat the crowds. Set aside an hour or two to climb to the top for great city views, then to take in the surrounding nine gardens within Kōko-en, designed in Edo Period style. A great time to visit is during cherry blossom season, when everything is framed in pink blooms and petals float atop the moats.  

How to get to Himeji-jō from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a JR Hikari train for 55 minutes to Himeji Station.

4. Eat real wagyū  in Kōbe

Travel time: 2 hours

Kōbe is Japan's easy and breezy nature city, with countless things to do . Here, the mountains hug the seaport, with great views at every turn that make you stop and smile. Stop to dig into authentic wagyū (Japanese beef) – registered restaurants (identifiable by indoor plaque written in Japanese) are the most reliable. A superb place to start is with the good-value set beef menu at Tor Road Steak Aoyama – or by going all out with an exquisite teppanyaki experience (watching your chef work a hot plate) at Genkichi Kobe Beef . Head uphill from Sannomiya Station to a district of tree-lined streets with merchant houses, quaint cafes and unique shops. 

Even with a population of 1.5 million, Kōbe offers easy access to nature. Mt Rokko, a popular hiking spot (accessible by cable car, too), towers over the city's narrow streets and features the landscaped Nunobiki Herb Gardens . Meanwhile, further up, Nunobiki Falls has been a muse for artists, poets and worshippers for centuries.

How to get to Kōbe from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a JR Limited Express Super Hakuto train for 50 minutes to Sannomiya Station. There are two loop buses plying all the sights of the port and city.

5. Daydream along the canals of Kurashiki

Willow trees dip into the canals, while handsome black-and-white Edo period (1603–1868) warehouses are tucked away off side lanes. A day trip to Kurashiki is like encountering an outdoor museum. Those buildings – many now converted into denim boutiques, cafes and art workshops – make up the atmospheric Bikan quarter.

Wander the laneways lined with old wooden houses and shops first before popping into the popular Ōhara Museum of Art , which displays works by Picasso, Cézanne and Matisse. Kids will love seeing the exhibits at the Japan Rural Toy Museum , or snacking on a denim-blue ice cream or burger in the Kojima district. (Kurashiki has been jeans-obsessed since its trading-hub days). 

A traditional boat tour of Kurashiki Canal is a lovely way to pass the afternoon. On land, Ivy Square is a pretty courtyard that once housed textile factories but now often plays host to live entertainment.

How to get to Kurashiki from Kyoto: Ride the 90-minute Hikari bullet train to Okayama Station, then change to the 15-minute JR Sanyo line train to Kurashiki Station.

6. Reflect on peace in Hiroshima 

Hiroshima may be synonymous with the devastating atomic bomb attack in 1945. But this leafy, laid-back city has much more to offer visitors these days than just its past. If you want to reflect on the preciousness of peace in the face of war, definitely start at the Peace Memorial Park , then take in the haunting Atomic Bomb Dome , one of very few buildings left standing near the epicenter, whose shell has been preserved as a memorial alongside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum . Seeing the colorful garlands of origami paper cranes sent from schools across the world at the Children's Peace Monument is joyfully moving.

It's ambitious but possible to tackle Hiroshima as a day trip from Kyoto; we'd recommend lingering in the city and staying the night. That way, you can dig into a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake), which adds a layer of yakisoba noodles for delicious heftiness. A fun way to taste it is by choosing one of the dozens of okonomiyaki restaurants at the multi-level Okonomimura food hall.

Another reason to stay into the late afternoon is the short trip over to the gorgeous island of Miyajima , home to Itsukushima-jinja , a bright red shrine rising out of the ocean – and one of Japan's most iconic views. From here, you can wander through streets lined with machiya (old wooden townhouses) and, if you have another spare hour, take a cable car up to the summit of Mt Misen for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.

How to get to Hiroshima from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take the Shinkansen Nozomi bullet train to Hiroshima (1 hour 40 minutes; this is not covered by JR Pass alone – an additional fee is required). Tourist loop buses and trams depart regularly from Hiroshima Station to the Peace Park. To reach the ferry port from Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo line for 25 minutes to Miyajimaguchi Station.

7. Taste the sizzle of street food in Osaka

Travel time: under 30 minutes

Osaka's street-food stalls are a festival of lanterns and delicious, sizzling smells, enjoyable day or night – easily done in a quick jaunt from Kyoto. Since the city is known as "Japan's kitchen," arrive hungry.

Its motto of  kuidaore  literally means "to eat oneself bankrupt." Which means you can expect to carve up okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and devour takoyaki (fried octopus balls) along the canal in  Dōtombori , peering up to see the iconic Running Man sign. Then try kushikatsu (crumbed meat and vegetables on sticks) near the Tsutenkaku Tower in the kitschy, retro neighborhood of Shin-Sekai .

As you wind through the alleyways of Ura-Namba to Torame Yokacho (Tiger Alley), you can try a range of favorite dishes under one roof. When full, walk off your excesses in the expansive grounds of Osaka Castle or browse boutique and vintage clothing shops in the hip neighborhoods of Amerika-Mura , Horie and Nakazakicho.

How to get to Osaka from Kyoto:  From Kyoto Station, take a 28-minute JR Special Rapid train bound for Himeji to Osaka Station. Bullet trains also run between Kyoto and Shin-Osaka Station.

8. Cycle, swim, hike and ride canal boats around Lake Biwa

Travel time: 35 minutes

Japan's largest lake is rich with outdoor life. Along its shores, visitors find an almost overwhelming number of temples, castles, cities and activities spread hours apart. Start in the lake's most wonderfully preserved town, Ōmihachiman, far away from foreign crowds. From here, you can rent bicycles and follow the color-coded path markings for straightforward, self-guided cycling on a section around the lake. Or take it slow with a canal boat ride on the narrow waterways, gazing at the feudal-era merchant houses of Ōmihachiman, which once held goods brought across the Sea of Japan. 

If you head up the Hachimanyama Ropeway, you'll be rewarded with great views across Lake Biwa, as well as short hiking trails. In summer, listen for the waves pattering the lake shore, inviting you for gentle beach swimming. 

With more time, you can chase down the torii  (gates) of Shirahige Shrine, which seem to float on the lake, or 17th-century Hikone-jō , shrouded in beautiful autumnal colors in mid- to late-November.

How to get to Lake Biwa from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a Special Rapid train to Omi Hachiman Station.

This article was first published Jul 8, 2019 and updated Jan 26, 2024.

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• Aug 24, 2022

One Day Sightseeing Trip to Uji, Kyoto | Japan

If you've ever visited Kyoto you've probably seen the usual tourist sights such as the Golden Pavillion and Kiyomizudera . You likely even had a stroll along the Kamogawa river in Kyoto city, and quite possibly visited Nishiki Market . Was I close?

While all of those places are definitely worth a visit, and somewhere I recommend to someone visiting Kyoto for the first time, in this post I want to try and get you out of Kyoto city and exploring a lesser known place in Kyoto, called Uji (宇治市). Uji is known for its high quality green tea, and for the famous Byodoin temple - the temple featured on the back of the Japanese 10 yen coin.

Uji is located not far from Kyoto city, and easily accessible by train from Kyoto and Osaka . I recommend spending a half day or a full day in this green tea town, depending on your interests. Below is my personal recommendation list of things to do in Uji. Hopefully it makes planning your day trip a little easier, and highlights some of Uji's best attractions. It really is a lovely little day trip from Kyoto city!

Visit Byodoin and learn about the temple on the 10 yen coin

Byodoin translates to the "Temple of Equality." Aside from appearing on the Japanese 10 yen coin, Byodoin has a huge history. I tried many times to summarise the main parts from the long history of this temple for this blog entry, but it was honestly an impossible task. If you're into Buddhism or Japanese history then I definitely recommend reading up a little before going, although the temple will give you a brochure upon entering with some important facts.

At the time of my visit, adult entry tickets to Byodoin were 600 yen each. With this ticket you can wander the temple grounds, admire the Phoenix Hall from the outside, and visit the museum. The museum has a ton of history about the temple, plus some artefacts on display. Just made sure you come ready to consume information.

The actual image on the 10 yen coin is of Phoenix Hall, which was completed in 1053. It costs extra to access this part of the temple, and tickets must be purchased after entering from a second ticket booth. I recommend buying your ticket as soon as entering, as the group tours fill up very quickly. On a busy day it's normal to wait a few hours for entry into the Phoenix Hall, so don't say I didn't warn you! Tours are only available in Japanese, but you can grab some information in English from the ticket booth.

So, is visiting the Phoenix Hall worth it? To be honest, yes and no. If you're able to secure a ticket for a reasonable hour, then yes. If the earliest entry to the hall is several hours away, then probably not - unless you're a Japanese history buff.

Overall, a lovely temple with a ton of history definitely worth a visit (even if you don't enter Phoenix Hall!)

Click the images to expand.

Suggested access to Byodoin: Uji station (JR) or Uji station (Keihan line).

Name in Japanese: 平等院

Address in English: Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治蓮華116

Admire the colourful hydrangeas at Mimurotoji Hydrangea Garden

Mimurotoji is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto for hydrangeas. Hydrangeas in Japan bloom in rainy season, right as the weather starts to get a little hot and humid.

I've specifically mentioned the Hydrangea Garden in this post, as I've only visited Mimurotoji during hydrangea season. However, after researching a little more about this temple online I found out that it's also a popular place for lotus, azaleas and weeping plum blossoms.

The best way to find out what's currently blooming is to check the temple's Instagram page , or the temple's website . Information is only available in Japanese, but the page translates well with translation plug-ins.

In summer the gardens also open a small cafe with some hydrangea themed sweets available. I stopped by here on both of my visits to Mimurotoji for some ice-cream and shaved ice, which were a welcome treat in the heat.

If you don't get a chance to visit Mimurotoji Hydrangea Garden, but would still love to see some hydrangeas, check out my post that focuses on Hydrangeas in Osaka city (entry is free!)

This temple is a must for flower lovers, and the best part is that it's easily accessible from Kyoto or Osaka. I must say, there is a slight uphill walk from the station to the temple, but its not at all difficult. Please check the temple's Instagram or website for information about in-season flowers.

Suggested access to Mimurotoji: Mimurodo Station (Keihan line).

Name in Japanese: 三室戸寺 あじさい園

Address in English: 〒611-0013 Kyoto, Uji, Todo, Okunoike−10−16

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0013 京都府宇治市莵道奥ノ池10−16

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Eat some green tea flavoured food at Byodo-in Omotesando Street

This street is located around five minutes walk from Uji station. If visiting Byodoin is on your list for the day, then you'll likely stumble across this street on your way there, as it's basically the street that leads you to up to the temple.

This street is a great place to sample some Uji tea, and buy some green tea related souvenirs. Here in Omotensando Street you'll be spoilt for choice for different teas and tea related products. Many stores sell green tea products such as ice-cream, dango, pancakes, and even green tea noodles!

Try the delicious matcha green tea ice-cream at Masuda Chaho

I had the matcha green tea soft-serve ice-cream covered in matcha powder. It tastes as good as it looks!

Name in Japanese: ますだ茶舗

Address in English: Renge-21-3 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治蓮華２１−3

Grab a matcha flavoured treat at Iwai!

I tried the matcha pancakes which had a stencil of the phoenix from Byodoin on top. Of course they came with a scoop of matcha ice-cream and matcha syrup.

Name in Japanese: はんなりかふぇ・京の飴工房 憩和井(iwai) 平等院店

Address in English: 5-6 宇治蓮華 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治蓮華５−6

What else can I see while visiting Uji?

Tale of genji museum.

A museum about the famous Japanese novel "The Tale of Genji" written by Murasaki Shikibu and considered by many to be one of the world's first novels.

Name in Japanese: 宇治市源氏物語ミュージアム

Address in English: Higashiuchi-45-26 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治東内45-26

A Zen Temple complex that opens early in the morning for Buddhist sutra chanting.

Name in Japanese: 興聖寺

Address in English: Yamada-27-1 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治山田27-1

Daikichiyama Observation Deck

Hike up to Daikichiyama Observation Deck for a view out over Uji city.

Name in Japanese: 大吉山展望台

Address in English: Higashiuchi-65-5 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021

Address in Japanese: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治東内６５−5

How to get to Uji

From osaka umeda station to uji.

From Umeda station take the Midosuji line to Yodoyabashi station. Change to the Keihan Main line and take the train to Chushojima station. From Chushojima station take the Keihan Uji line to Uji station.

Total time: Around 1 hour

From Kyoto Kawaramachi station to Uji

From Kyoto Kawaramachi it's best to walk 5 minutes to Gion-Shijo station on the Keihan line in order to start your journey. Take the Keihan Main line to Chushojima station. From Chushojima station take the Keihan Uji line to Uji station.

Total time: Around 35 minutes

From Kyoto station to Uji JR station

From Kyoto station take the Nara line to Uji station (on the JR line).

Total time: Around 20 minutes

Note: JR Passes can be used on this route.

Final thoughts on a one day trip to Uji

Uji is a great place for a half day or one day trip from either Kyoto or Osaka . The crowds are fewer, the air is cleaner, and the green tea flavoured sweets are delicious! Uji is an easy place to tour alone, or otherwise you can join a short organised tour .

If you're lucky enough to be visiting Kyoto during autumn, I highly suggest making a reservation to enter Saihoji (Kokedera) Temple if time permits. The autumn colours contrast beautifully with the greens of the moss.

For anybody interested in my day-to-day expat life in Japan, head on over to my Instagram page . I usually post a little something most days either in stories or in feed, so come take a look! There's LOTS of stuff that doesn't make it to this blog :)

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest!

Visiting Uji soon? Take a look at some of the tours currently on offer!

• Sightseeing
• Gardens/Flowers

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29 comentarios

I visited Uji some years ago and loved how uncrowded it was compared to Kyoto. Loved all the green tea treats, too. Now I spent weeks in "provincial" Kyoto I really see the beauty of small towns and have little desire to visit the big cities.

Phoenix Hall is gorgeous, and hydrangeas are one of my favorite flowers (probably since they come in all my favorite shades of blue and lavender!)

Hydrangeas are just gorgeous, aren't they? I love how they come in many different colors and shapes.

Definitely recommend Uji too, especially if you like tea! A lot more tranquil than Tokyo (but its been years since i visited), Lovely post, thank you for sharing!

I'm glad to have found another Uji fan! Thanks for your comment :)

I'm thinking of the Byodo-In Temple in O'ahu, Hawaii, which is a small replica of the Byodo-In temple in Uji, Japan. Someday I'd want to go to Uji!

Thanks for sharing that information! I had no idea such a thing existed!

I would love to explore this part of Japan!

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What is the Best Way to Do 1 Day Trip to Kyoto from Tokyo?

How far is Kyoto from Tokyo?

Private tours in kyoto from tokyo, shinkansen bullet train: fastest and comfortable, bus: cheapest, 1. comfortable plan: bullet train round-trip, 2. make the most out of your day: go by bullet train and return by night bus, 3. budget plan: round-trip by night bus, comparative table, you may also like the following articles.

Tokyo and Kyoto are the two most famous cities in Japan, and many tourists visit both cities. Even if you visit only Tokyo for a short period of time, it is still possible to visit Kyoto from Tokyo. In fact, if you have the time we recommend you to visit Kyoto. Even if you go there for one day, it will enrich your experience of Japan.

Kyoto is 2-3 hours away from Tokyo by Shinkansen, the actual time depends on which Shinkansen you take. It takes about 5-7 hours if you travel by bus or car and there are overnight buses as one of the options too. If you want to travel in the cheap way, you can get on the night bus around midnight and you will get to Kyoto early in the morning! Kyoto and Tokyo are very different cities and with visiting them both you will experience Japan ‘one step deeper’. You might not have thought of it, but you can even visit Kyoto from Tokyo for one day.

The easiest way for you would be our day-trip tour from Tokyo to Kyoto. This full-day guided tour allows you to see the best highlights of Kyoto in one day including Kinkakuji Temple (the Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizudera Temple. The only thing you have to do is get to Kyoto yourself, which we can also arrange for you. But when you have a JR Pass, like many tourist have the Shinkansen in included. Check the link below for more details about the guided day-trip tour to Kyoto from Tokyo!

Kyoto 1–Day Private Walking Tour from Tokyo (8 Hours Tour in Kyoto)

Transportation to Kyoto

There are two options for transportation to get to Kyoto from Tokyo. 1. Shinkansen Bullet Train 2. Night Bus Let’s check out pros and cons of each one.

The fastest way to travel to Kyoto from Tokyo is by Shinkansen. The fastest Shinkansen called Nozomi takes about 2,5 hrs and costs ¥13.080 per person for one way. The Nozomi, however, is not covered by the JR Rail Pass. When you have JR Pass, it is better to take the second fastest Shinkansen Hikari . Hikari will get to to Kyoto in about 3 hrs with no extra charge! You can either board the Shinkansen at Tokyo station or Shinawaga station.

Our tips for the Bullet Train ride:

• From Tokyo to Kyoto: Reserve the seat E because you can see Mt. Fuji from the seat window on a sunny day. Mt. Fuji appears 40 mins after the departure of Tokyo.
• Tokyo station: Buy a Bento lunch box. There is a great variety of unique lunch boxes sold here and you can enjoy them during Shinkansen ride!

The cheaper way is taking a bus, especially the overnight bus. If you take a night bus, departure time from Tokyo is around 10-11pm, then arriving time in Kyoto is 6-7am.

The price varies on days. It costs usually between ¥1.700 and ¥6.000. The price may be higher on weekends and during the holiday season of Japan.

Recommended bus companies: ・ Willer Express  ¥4.000 ・ VIP liner ¥4.000 ・ Sakura Kanko bus  ¥1.700

Recommended itinerary for a day-trip to Kyoto from Tokyo

Transportation fee: approx. ¥ 26.000

08:00 – 11:00 Bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto 11:00 – 18:00 Sightseeing in Kyoto for 7 hours – (Please check Kyoto itinerary  here .) 18:00 – 21:00 Bullet train from Kyoto to Tokyo

Recommended hotels close to Tokyo station (Luxe and First Class)

The Tokyo Station Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo

Transportation fee: approx. ¥ 15.000 – ¥ 20.000

08:00 – 11:00 Bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto 11:00 – 08:00 Sightseeing in Kyoto for 7 hours – (Please check Kyoto itinerary  here ) 18:00 – 22:00 Enjoy dinner and night activity in Kyoto 23:00 – 06:30 Back to Tokyo by night bus

Recommended budget hotels in Akihabara station – easy access to Tokyo station’s bus terminal.

GRIDS AKIHABARA First Cabin Akihabara Glansit Akihabara

Transportation fee: approx. ¥ 4.000 – ¥ 12.000

23:00 – 06:30 Go to Kyoto by night bus 06:30 – 08:00 Arrive in Kyoto and have breakfast 08:00 – 18:00 Sightseeing in Kyoto for 10 hours – ( Kyoto one day itinerary ) 18:00 – 22:00 Enjoy dinner and night activity in Kyoto 23:00 – 06:30 Back to Tokyo by night bus

To get most out of your visit to Kyoto, we recommend you to take a guided tour so you can see around Kyoto efficiently, especially when you are there for a short time! The local guide will tell you more about the history and culture of Kyoto. We offer many different tours in Kyoto, below the two most popular, please check them out!

Food Tour: Kyoto FooDrink Tour – Nishiki Street & Gion Private Tour: Kyoto 4 Hour HIGHLIGHT Private Walking Tour

What is your preferred mode of traveling? If you have your JR Rail Pass, the Shinkansen will probably be your best option – it is already included in the price. Otherwise the (much) cheaper night bus is a great alternative. Recently is has become much more comfortable than before so it is definitely a great option to go to Kyoto!

Is it hard to come to Japan right now? You can join our tour at home and learn about Kyoto before you come to Japan! Explore 5 spots including Kinkakuji, Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari etc. while the local guide telling you the small story about the area. Kyoto Virtual Highlight Tour

If you want some advice, please feel free to ask us Contact Japan Wonder Travel

Follow us on  Instagram  or  Facebook  for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured! 

Happy travelling!

This post may contain some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra costs to you .

Hi there! Thank you for the tip on this page! May I please ask if it’s advisable to take the Hikari there and back? And by what time should we take the Hikari at night?

Hi Vivian-san, Thank you for your inquiry. Of course you could use Hikari between Tokyo and Kyoto. You could use Hikari with JR rail pass. Then last train is about 8pm between Tokyo and Kyoto.(It takes about 3 hours.) If you have any question, please feel free to let us know.

Best regards, Yu

Hi.. in regards to the bus.. is it safe for non- Japanese speaking passengers? Is it comfortable? How do I get more details on the bus? I’m flying in to Haneda.. how do I go by bus from there?

Hi Husna-san, Yes it’s safe for non-Japanese speaking passengers. I used bus last month, some non Japanese speaking passengers were in bus. 3 seat-row is comfortable, 4 seat-row is bit tight, I think.

Please check bus’s company page. From airport, there is an airport limousine bus to Shinjuku bus terminal.

hello, is the bus travel from tokyo to kyoto at night, safe?

I often use bus and it’s always safe basically.

Hello! Would it be worth buying a JR pass just for this one day trip, as I am based in Tokyo and will only do one trip outside of Tokyo due to time. I’ve heard a return trip on the bullet train is as expensive as a JR Pass.

Don’t use the night bus if you’re claustrophobic, afraid of the dark, or need to look out of the window when you travel. The entire seated area is boxed off with curtains (you can’t see out of the windshield in front either), lights are not allowed, opening the curtains is not allowed. It’s supposed to create a relaxed environment but there’s nothing much relaxed about it. They’ve been pretty strict when I’ve tried to see where I’m going.

Thanks for your article! We will take the night bus from Kyoto to Tokyo, arriving around 7:00 in the morning. But the hotel does not accept baggage deposit and we can not check in before 15:00. Are there places where we can “crash” with our luggages and wait/rest a bit until we can check in?

What “crash” means? There are baggage storage services in hub station like Tokyo station. If you are tired and would like to have rest, there are many manga-cafe which have lots of comics. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2025_manga_kissa.html

The time is limited. So we recommend you leave baggage at storage service and explore the big city TOKYO.

Hi, of using bus, do you think 1 full day (10 hrs) is enough to tour Kyoto and Nara including travel time in between? What’s the travel duration? Thanks!

@Leah-san, Thank you for your comment. From Kyoto to Nara it takes about 1 hour. And you should spend at least 4 hours in Nara. We think it’s not enough for 10 hours in Kyoto and Nara. If you only have 10 hours, you should spend only in Kyoto!! Have a nice trip!!

Hello! What do you mean by “no extra charges” with the Hikari train if we use a JR Pass? Does it mean once we purchase a JR Pass, we are able to go inside the train instantly without paying? May I also ask how much the discounts are from Kyoto to Tokyo if we have the Pass? Thank you!

If you have JR pass, you take Hikari train free. If you would like to take Nozomi train, you need to pay extra. Please check http://www.japanrailpass.net/

hi, i will be arriving in Narita airport Tokyo on May 24 at 5pm, i want to go to Kyoto right away overnight bus. How can i get to the Will Express station from the airport?

Hello Arcadio Elegado-san,

Thank you for your comment. What’s “the Will Express Station”? Willer Express bus station in Shinjuku?

You need take NEX(Narita Express: JR train) or Air Port Limousine bus from Narita to Shinjuku station.

Is it possible to buy a return ticket for the bulletin train to Kyoto, or do you purchase two separate tickets for Tokyo-Kyoto Kyoto-Tokyo?

You will need to buy two one-way tickets for the Shinkansen. Let us know if you have more questions, happy to help! Enjoy your trip!

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• Travel tips

Uji Day Trip from Kyoto: Best Things to Do in Uji in One Day

Uji is a small town in Kyoto Prefecture known for its green tea production , UNESCO World Heritage temples , and Tale of Genji , the world’s first novel. It is only 18km south of Kyoto, which makes Uji the perfect day trip destination.

I thoroughly enjoyed my Uji day trip from Kyoto because it was easy to get to, and the town felt very laidback and relaxing. And most of all, I like the slow pace in Uji compared to Kyoto. And I have to admit: I visited Uji because I love green tea matcha desserts! Ha!

So, if you also love matcha desserts as much as I do and want to spend the day temple-hopping and hiking to a viewpoint, then follow my full-day itinerary and see all the best things to do in Uji in one day.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the  disclosure for more info.

What you need to know before planning your Uji itinerary

Before visiting Uji in Kyoto Prefecture, take a look at my post on everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few additional travel tips that you may find useful for your Uji day trip:

• ICOCA is the prepaid IC card for the Kansai Region. It is a rechargeable smartcard where you can take public transportation, including bus, train etc. Use the IC card when you take the train from Kyoto to Uji and back.
• If you want to maximize your time in Uji, aim to be in Uji by 9:30am so you can comfortably see everything on this itinerary.
• Uji is a safe city for solo female travellers .
• Hydrangea Season in Uji (early June to early July) – see over 20,000 hydrangeas in 50 varieties at Mimuroto-ji Temple
• Uji Tea Festival (first Sunday in October) – see the ritual of tea making and the traditional tea-jar opening ceremony at Koshoji Temple

How to travel from Kyoto to Uji

Taking a Uji day trip from Kyoto is super easy. The small town is only 18km south of Kyoto , and the most efficient transportation method is the train.

Choose one of the two options below, depending on where you are in Kyoto. Check Hyperdia for the exact schedule and fares .

Kyoto to Uji Train: 2 options

Japan railways.

If you are going to Uji from Kyoto Station, Japan Railways is a better option because a direct train goes into Uji.

• Kyoto Station to JR Uji Station – 22 minutes, ¥240 (covered by JR Pass)

Keihan Electric Railway

If you are staying in the Kawaramachi area, Keihan Electric Railway is a better option because you can take the same railway, change trains once and get to Uji in half an hour.

• Gion-Shijo Station to Keihan Uji Station – 30 minutes, ¥320 (change trains at Chushojima Station)

Map: Best things to do in Uji in 1 day

There are many things to do in Uji, and you can comfortably see everything in one day. Between temples and shrines, a hike up to the observation deck to see the town from above, and sampling local Uji green tea matcha desserts, you will thoroughly enjoy your day trip to Uji.

I pinned all the top things to do in Uji on the interactive map.  Red pins are all the must-see attractions   on the Uji day trip ,  blue pins are other things to do in   Uji , and yellow pins are Uji accommodations if you decide to stay overnight.

Uji Day Trip: 1-day Itinerary

1. walk across byōdō-in omotesando road towards byōdō-in temple.

If you are taking the JR train and arriving at JR Uji Station, walk towards Byōdō-in Temple via Ujibashi Road . When you exit the station, cross the main road, and the next road parallel to the main road is Ujibashi Road.

Continue walking northeast until you arrive at Byōdō-in Omotesando Road , the main walking street leading up to Byōdō-in Temple.

If you arrive in Uji via Keihan Railway, the Keihan Uji Station is at the north end of Uji-bashi Bridge. Cross the bridge, and Byōdō-in Omotesando Road is immediately south of the bridge.

2. See the Statue of Murasaki Shikibu

Before you walk straight to the temple, see the Statue of Murasaki Shikibu first.

Murasaki Shikibu is a Japanese writer and the world’s first novelist. She is the author of The Tale of Genji , a romantic novel set in Uji. The novel is from the 11th century and is an essential part of the Japanese literary world.

A stone statue commemorating her is located at the west end of Uji-bashi Bridge , one of the oldest bridges in Japan.

3. Wander around Byōdō-in Temple

Byōdō-in Temple is a 10th-century Buddhist temple and is a beautiful example of Japanese Buddhist architecture . The temple may look familiar to you; it is the temple on the ¥10 coin.

When you visit this UNESCO World Heritage site , you can roam around the garden and see the exterior of the Phoenix Hall and visit other Buddhist temples like Jodo-in Temple , Fudo-do Hall and Saisho-in Temple . Plus, the entrance fee includes Byōdō-in Hoshokan Museum (which is next on the itinerary).

For an additional ¥300, you can walk through Phoenix Hall and see the Amidanyarai Buddha statue and the colourful and elegant interior through a guided tour (in Japanese). But taking photos is not allowed inside.

Address : Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto | Hours : 8:30am-5:30pm | Admission : ￥600 and ￥300 for Pheonix Hall

4. See exhibits in Byōdō-in Hoshokan Museum

As mentioned, the Byōdō-in Hoshokan Museum is included in the entrance fee.

And when you tour inside the modern museum, you can see original artefacts found in Byōdō-in Temple , including the praying Bodhisattva Buddhist Saints, the Temple Bell and other excavated items. Plus, you can see the recreation of the colourful interiors of Phoenix Hall.

Even though only a few exhibits has English explanation, the museum was quite interesting. And photography is prohibited inside.

5 or 6. Try green tea soba noodles for lunch

Uji is known for Uji matcha green tea ! Matcha lovers rejoice! You can find Uji green tea ice cream, green tea mochi, green tea pudding, green tea cookies, etc. And they even have green tea curry!

For lunch, visit one of the restaurants in Uji and try green tea soba noodles. Here are some options:

• Fukujuen Cafe Uji – enjoy cold or hot soba noodles in this casual restaurant in front of Uji River.
• Nakamura Tokichi Byodo-in – try soba noodles at this popular teashop. They also have many matcha green tea desserts.
• Many cafes and restaurants on Byōdō-in Omotesando Road.

7 & 8. Walk across To-no-shima Island and Tachibana Island

Continue the full-day itinerary by crossing the two small inlets in the Uji River. First, cross the Kisen-bashi Bridge to To-no-shima Island , the southern and smaller inlet.

There is the Jusanju-sekito Stone Stupa , a 13-tiered stone pagoda in the centre and a caged area for the cormorants . These cormorants are part of the summer evening boat tour. I didn’t include it in this itinerary as it is a seasonal event, but I included some info near the end of this post.

Then, keep walking north until you reach Tachibana Island , the larger inlet. There’s not much to see here, so continue forward by crossing the Asagiri-bashi Bridge to the city’s north side.

9. See the Statue of the Ten Uji Chapters

At the other end of Asagiri-bashi Bridge, there is another statue, and this one is called the Statue of the Ten Uji Chapters . It is a monument of Ukifune and Niou-no-Miya (two characters in The Tale of Genji) rowing a small boat in the Uji River.

The style of the monument is quite similar to the one you saw earlier, don’t you think?

10. Wander around Koshoji Temple

Koshoji Temple was the first Soto Zen monastery founded in 1233. It was later rebuilt in 1649, and now it is the first monastery among the 14,000 Soto Zen temples where monks pray every day for the peace of every being.

Beyond the Chinese-style gate and pristine white walls are many temples, pagodas , and manicured trees . When you follow the guided path, you can see the Shakyamuni Buddha statue in the Hatto main hall , the Sodo (the monks hall) and the three-faced Daikokuten statue nearby.

Address : Yamada-27-1 Uji, Kyoto | Hours : 5am-5pm | Admission : ￥500

11. Visit Uji Shrine

Walk back to the north end of Asagiribashi Bridge and towards Uji Shrine .

Uji-no-wakei-iratsuko, who is the founder of education and academic achievement, is the enshrined deity at Uji Shrine. That is why many people visit the shrine before an exam to pray for good luck and pass their tests and exams.

Also, there are many rabbit motifs around the Uji Shrine . Legend has it that a divine rabbit guided the enshrined deity when he got lost on the way to Uji from Kawachi, which is why the bunny symbolizes good luck. And you can even buy a rabbit figurine as a lucky charm at Ujigami Shrine, your next destination.

Address : Yamada−１Uji, Kyoto | Hours : 9am-4:30pm | Admission : free

12. Wander around Ujigami Shrine

Behind the Uji Shrine is the Ujigami Shrine . Both shrines were connected before, where Uji Shrine was the lower shrine and Ujigami Shrine was the upper shrine. But they have been separated since the Meiji Period.

Even though there aren’t any official records of when the shrine was built, the study of tree rings to determine age was applied, and it proved that the Ujigami Shrine is Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine . It is one of two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Uji.

When wandering around Ujigami Shrine, check out the Prayer Hall at the front of the property and look for the Main Hall at the back, built in a classic Shinto architectural style.

Also, look for Kiriharasui , which was once a freshwater spring used for purification rituals. You can still do that today with the ladles provided inside.

Address : Yamada-59 Uji, Kyoto  | Hours : 9am-4:30pm | Admission : free

13. See exhibits at The Tale of Genji Museum

When Japanese people think of Uji, they think of the Tale of Genji , the world’s first novel where most scenes are found in Uji. It is a classic novel by  Murasaki Shikibu , the world’s first novelist. And the Tale of Genji is best known in the Japanese world of literature.

Inside the Tale of Genji Museum (Ujishi Genjimonogatari Museum), see the recreation of certain scenes from the classic novel. Pay attention to the type of clothing and other items used around the 11th century. And there is a movie room (but it is in Japanese). But you can listen to the English audio and get caught up.

If the exhibits are not of interest to you, there is an on-site cafe called Unjosaryo that serves Instagram-worthy matcha desserts. Perhaps that will pique your interest?

Address : Higashiuchi-45-26 Uji, Kyoto | Hours : 9am-5pm (closed Mondays) | Admission : ￥500

14. See a panoramic view of Uji from the Daikichiyama Observation Deck

The entrance to the trail leading to the Daikichiyama Observation Deck is not far from the Tale of Genji Museum. And the hike through Daikichiyama Fuchi Park  is pretty easy. All you have to do is follow the path and zig-zag your way up the mountain.

It takes between 20 to 30 minutes to get to the observation deck. At the top, you can see a panoramic view of Uji.

And it looks like the trail continues to other parts of the park. But for now, retrace your way down back to the entrance and continue your itinerary.

15. Have matcha dessert at Tusen Tea Shop

After a long day of wandering around Uji, you have to get at least one matcha dessert. Many dessert shops are on the pedestrian street, but there is a special one you should check out.

Tsuen Tea Shop is on the north side of Uji-bashi Bridge and has been around since 1160, making it Japan’s oldest teashop.

They have many matcha desserts and savoury food like soba noodles. I couldn’t make up my mind, so I ended up getting a matcha parfait, matcha dango and matcha tea . So good!

16. Buy matcha souvenirs from stores on Byōdō-in Omotesando Road

Before you leave Uji, pick up some matcha food souvenirs from stores on Byōdō-in Omotesando Road . You walked through this street earlier, so hopefully, you saw some places where you want to pick up some matcha goodies.

There are quite a bit of options when it comes to matcha desserts. I saw cheesecakes, mochi, ice cream and other sweet treats. Plus, they have savoury products like soba noodles and somen noodles . And many shops are selling green tea ; you can sample it before you buy.

When you are ready to go back to Kyoto, walk back to either Uji Station and catch the next train back to Kyoto.

Other things to do in Uji in Kyoto Prefecture

There are a few other things to do in Uji if you quickly go through the one-day itinerary or decide to stay overnight.

• Mimuroto-ji Temple – also known as the “flower temple,” follow the path around Mimuroto-ji to see the temple, three-tiered pagoda and garden. Cherry blossom is in full bloom in early April, azaleas in May, hydrangeas in June and lotuses between July and August.
• Manpuku-ji Temple – visit the Buddhist temple founded in 1661 by a Chinese monk. Wander around the garden and the teak temple and see the statue of Hotei and the wooden fish board.
• Cormorant fishing – watch cormorants catch fish in their beaks during evening tours between July to September.
• Tea preparation class at Takumi-no Yakata – learn how to make Uji tea in a traditional tea room

Where to stay in Uji, Japan

Staying overnight in Uji is unnecessary, but if you like the small-town feel and want to explore more of the countryside, stay overnight in Uji.

Below are a few accommodation suggestions if you decide to stay in Uji. There are limited options, but these look quite nice and are close to the centre of Uji.

• Kyoto Uji Cha-gan-ju-tei House ($) – located south of Uji Station (JR), you can get a bed in a dorm or Japanese-style room.
• Kyoto Uji Hanayashiki Ukifune-en ($$$) – splurge and stay at this luxurious hotel by the Uji River. Sleep in a traditional Japanese room, soak in the hot tub and enjoy your time on the beautiful terrace.

Day trip to Uji from Kyoto: Is Uji worth visiting?

Absolutely! Uji is one of the best places to visit from Kyoto, where you can get away from the busy city and enjoy a bit of small-town scenery. And while you are spending time in nature, you can also enjoy an abundance of matcha green tea food and dessert. What could be better?

And taking a day trip to Uji in Kyoto Prefecture is easy peasy, especially when you take one of the Kyoto to Uji trains. You can get to Uji from Kyoto in less than half an hour!

I hope you enjoyed reading my post about Uji, Japan. It is one of the best off-the-beaten-path cities in Japan . Let me know in the comments if you are visiting Uji and what you will include in the Uji itinerary.

Thank you for reading my Uji itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Best things to eat in Kobe
• Arima Onsen day trip itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Kumamoto to Mount Aso: How to Get There & What to Do

Japanese Food Culture: 11 Must Try Food in Japan

Best Things to Do in Dazaifu Japan: Day Trip Itinerary from Fukuoka

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Osaka to Himeji Castle: How to Get There & Full-Day Himeji Itinerary

Kyoto solo travel guide: 2-day kyoto itinerary & how to get around, ms travel solo.